Published in the July 1, 2016 edition
The city may not have fireworks on the Fourth of July, but it does celebrate in a manner that would otherwise make John Adams proud.
On July 3, 1776, the Founding Father from Braintree wrote to his wife and partner Abigail about Independence Day:
“I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.”
Monday morning at the Common, the city will host its free celebration.
Kids are invited to join in the fun of the Annual Bike & Carriage Parade around Common Park. Bring your decorated bike, wagon, carriage, scooter, skateboard, or other custom ride and take part in the festivities.
Parade registration is no longer required.
The parade will begin at 10:30 a.m. sharp so be sure to arrive early.
At the conclusion of the parade all youth participants will receive a ribbon. There will also be music and free face painting, games and activities.
Concessions will be available at the event for purchase.
The events on the Common will end around 12:30 p.m. If it rains, the events will be cancelled.
Also planned for July 4th is the Mt. Hood Park Association’s 31st Annual July 4th Concert in front of the clubhouse at Mount Hood Memorial Park, 100 Slayton Rd.
Festivities will begin Monday, July 4th, at 6:45 p.m. with the Middlesex Concert Band providing music. This year’s music program promises to be an exciting selection of new songs highlighting the patriotic theme of the day as well as popular show tunes. Free popcorn and lemonade for the children will be provided compliments of Golf Management Co. as quantities last.
Hosts are continuing the tradition of ending the concert with “Stars and Stripes Forever,” in which all children will be given free American flags to wave while marching in front of the clubhouse.
Bring your family and blankets or chairs to listen to music in one of the most beautiful and pristine venues in Melrose.
And if you are looking for something to do after dark, Wakefield’s fireworks are scheduled to begin above Lake Quannapowitt around 9:30 p.m.
Whatever you do, please enjoy our nation’s 240th birthday. And enjoy it safely.
