Celebrations, Parades, & Fireworks Displays
If you looked at a real-time aerial map of Cape Cod on the Fourth of July, you’d see bursts of color dotting the line of the arm – the Cape takes its Independence Day events very seriously.
Apart from the traditional show of explosives, many of the region’s towns will host family-friendly parades and a whale-and-firework tour for visitors to Cape Cod vacation rentals to enjoy.
Here is a brief list of some of the annual Fourth of July activities on the Cape:
Fourth of July Fireworks
While Cape Cod fireworks may not compete with Macy’s annual show, we do take our fireworks very seriously. You have your choice of location for Fourth of July fireworks and celebrations this year, from the inner to outer cape.
Beat the Independence Day crowds and head to the fireworks in Orleans on July 1. The fireworks take place at dusk at picturesque Rock Harbor. While you’ll get the best view at the harbor, you can spot the fireworks all along the coastline
On July 4, the fireworks options are plentiful. Falmouth is holding theirs on popular Falmouth Heights Beach. Be sure to tune into local radio station 102.9, which programs music to go with the show.
Also on July 4 are the Hyannis Fireworks over Lewis Bay starting at 9 p.m. This year, the best spots to view are Aselton Park, Bismore Park, and Veteran’s Park Beach.
For a pre-fireworks show, turn your radios on to 95.1 WXTK for some celebratory music and entertainment. Carpooling is recommended as parking is limited and the turnout for this event is typically high.
If you’re feeling adventurous, spend a night on Nantucket Island in order to catch their display of fireworks set off at Jetties Beach (Bathing Beach Road).
Evening Cruise & Fireworks
For an extra special Independence Day activity, get aboard a boat and catch some of the Cape’s best fireworks from the water.
Every year, Provincetown’s Dolphin Fleet offers a lucky number of guests. Watch for whales first, then sit back and relax as dusk falls and the sky lights up the color. Be sure to sign up in advance, as the event gets sold out quickly.
Fourth of July Parades
Like fireworks, Fourth of July parades are scattered across the many communities of the Cape. There are so many it shouldn’t be too difficult to find one close to Cape Cod vacation rentals.
Orleans will be hosting a family parade on July 4. The parade starts at Orleans Elementary School and will feature live music, colorful floats, and, of course, lots and lots of flags. The Orleans parade will be held rain or shine.
Parades typically march down the main drags of Chatham, Falmouth, and Cotuit, too.
Sandwich Boat Parade
Like many things on the Cape, the Sandwich Boat Parade has deep historical roots. This parade was started in the 1800s – more than 200 years ago – and today is one of the best-loved Fourth of July events in the region.
As the sun goes down on July 4, watch the Sandwich boat parade go by – this time by water. For this parade small boats, like canoes and kayaks, will float by, adorned with flights, flags, and other festive decorations. Be ready to be impressed by the unique contributions.
The parade takes place on July 4, 2018, on the Shawme Pond in Sandwich, MA.
Family Cookout at Cape Cod Vacation Rentals
Before you head to the fireworks, why not fire up the grill and have a family barbecue to celebrate both the Fourth of July and the beginning of summer.
Many of our fine vacation rentals have gas grills, decks, patios, or yards big enough to host a crew of family and friends. Grab a case of beer, hotdogs, hamburgers, and buns and have a low-quiet Independence Day celebration right under your own roof.
Stay On the Cape With Us
If you’re planning to spend the Fourth of July vacation on Cape Cod, give our team a call. We can help you choose from our selection of vacation rentals all over the Cape.
For information and availability, call us today at (508) 619-7658. We can help you find luxurious Cape Cod vacation rentals to suit your family’s holiday needs.
