Fireworks, Declaration of Independence readings highlight July 4th in Newport County
There are plenty of ways to celebrate the Fourth of July from cookouts to hitting the beach and so much more, but across Newport County you can bookend the day with that patriotic feeling.
Options exist to start your day by harkening back to revolutionary times with readings of the Declaration of Independence and once the sun sets of course there are fireworks to enjoy.
We've rounded up the events taking place this holiday to get you in the spirit and go beyond the hot dogs and hamburgers.
Newport
Fireworks
Weather permitting, this year’s Fourth of July Fireworks display is scheduled to light up the harbor beginning at approximately 9:15 p.m. on July 4, with a rain date slated for July 5.
Where to Park
Please note that parking can be limited during the hours leading up to the display. Visitors are encouraged to use any one of the City's public parking lots.
Where to View
For best viewing, be sure to find a westward-facing spot along Newport Habor. Popular viewing locations include Perrotti Park, King Park, and Queen Anne Square.
Colony House Open House
The Newport Historical Society will hold an open house on July 4th the Colony House, continuing a years long tradition. The Colony House will be open from 9 a.m. for visitors to explore the first floor. A slate of free events are also scheduled to take place in Washington Square. At 11 a.m., the Declaration of Independence will be read by the Sons of the Revolution from the steps of the Colony House, at which point public admission to the interior of the Colony House will end. Following the reading, the Artillery Company of Newport will fire a 21 Gun Salute in Washington Square.
Portsmouth
Fireworks
Escobar's Farm, 133 Middle Road, will host a fireworks display on July 5 at 9:15 p.m. Donations are accepted at the farm.
Declaration of Independence Reading
Join fellow citizens at 9 a.m. on July 4 on the grounds of the Portsmouth Free Public Library to read aloud portions of the Declaration of Independence, adopted unanimously by a fledgling Congress 248 years ago on July 4, 1776. Copies will be available or bring your own. Families are welcome and children are encouraged to read a passage. In case of rain the reading will be inside the library in the Mello Program Room.
Last year participants learned about William Ellery, one of two representatives from Rhode Island who signed the document. This year information about John Hancock, whose bold signature may be the best-known signature in our nation’s history, will be shared.
Please provide your own chair or blanket and dress for the weather. Some participants like to wear red, white and blue for the occasion. By about 9:30 you can then be on your way to parades and cookouts and other celebrations of the day.
Tiverton
Declaration of Independence reading
Annual Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence at the WWI Doughboy memorial statue on the Tiverton Bicentennial Green by the old Stone Bridge next to Grinnell’s Beach will take place at 9 a.m. on July 4.
This public reading is not like any other; those present are encouraged to read a marked passage from the Declaration so “We the People” can all participate! Prior to the reading, a brief history of events of past years, including those leading up to the creation of the Declaration are recounted. This typically takes less than a half hour, so you’ll have plenty of time to celebrate the rest of the weekend. (Held rain or shine)
Jamestown
Quiet Fireworks at Beavertail
Aiming to provide all members of the public with access to public spaces to do things they enjoy, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is inviting persons with hearing and sensory sensitivities to a "quiet fireworks" display on Tuesday, July 4, at Beavertail State Park in Jamestown, from 7 to 10 p.m.
From their perch at Beavertail, viewers may enjoy the City of Newport's annual Fourth of July display that's held across Narragansett Bay at Fort Adams State Park, with less noise exposure. Depending on weather and atmospheric conditions, the explosions of fireworks can be heard many miles away, so the viewing event at Beavertail will not be noiseless. However, the increased distance from Newport will allow viewers to enjoy the sparkle of the fireworks at much-reduced noise levels.
DEM's Division of Parks and Recreation has organized this event for patrons with hearing and sensory sensitivities. Leashed dogs are allowed if the leash is no longer than six feet. Children must be always accompanied by an adult. The viewing is wheelchair-accessible and stroller-friendly. During mosquito season, visitors are encouraged to use mosquito repellant to help protect themselves from mosquito bites. Patrons should consider bringing a flashlight, as the bathroom facilities at this location do not have lighting available.
The Beavertail Aquarium will extend its regular hours to 9 p.m. so patrons can explore marine life common to Rhode Island’s waters with interactive crafts and activities including a bioluminescent comb jellyfish demonstration before the fireworks begin. The event is for all ages and physical abilities.
Fireworks
The town's annual display at the East Ferry Memorial Square will take place at 9 p.m. Live music will begin at 7 p.m.
This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Fireworks in Newport, Portsmouth celebrate Fourth of July holiday
