What better way to celebrate Independence Day than by visiting Warwick, one of New England’s oldest cities, brimming with historical significance and coastal charm? Warwick played a pivotal role in the American Revolution as the site of the burning of the British ship HMS Gaspee in 1772, an event that predated the Boston Tea Party. Independence Day is celebrated with many events, including spectacular firework displays and family-friendly activities at local parks and beaches. With plenty of things to do this 4th of July weekend, you’ll want to extend your stay!
Check Out The Fireworks
Fireworks at Oakland Beach are an annual tradition in Warwick, with both locals and visitors gathering to watch the colorful displays explode over picturesque Narragansett Bay. This year’s Fourth of July event is scheduled for Wednesday, July 3. The fireworks start at dusk (at approximately 9pm) and last for about half an hour. The rain date for this event is Friday, July 5. Please refer to the Department of Tourism’s Facebook page for event updates.
The fireworks are also visible from Harbor Lights, a waterfront venue known for its beautiful views, special events and celebrations. The 4th of July is no exception. Stop by Harbor Lights for its annual Fireworks Party on July 3rd from 5pm - 11pm. Their Independence Day celebration includes a live band, lawn games, concessions, sunset views, dancing…and, of course, the amazing Oakland Beach fireworks display! Picturesque City Park is another great place to take in the fireworks as we celebrate our nation’s independence.
Picnic In The Parks
The Fourth, grilling, and picnicking go hand-in-hand, and the amenities at Warwick’s many parks make it easy for families and friends to spend the day outdoors. Head over to one of the many Farmers’ Markets in Warwick for fresh produce, baked goods, and fresh dairy products for the freshest farm-to-picnic basket items available. Goddard Park’s Farmers Market is open 9am - 1pm on Fridays, while Westbay Farm Stand is open 3pm - 6pm on Thursdays and the Conimicut Village Farmers Market is open on Saturdays from 9am-12pm.
Warwick’s many parks and beaches offer clean picnic areas with plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy. Warwick City Park offers a saltwater beach, bicycle paths, ball fields, and even an off-leash area for pets. Rocky Point State Park has many walking trails and fishing spots. George B. Salter Memorial Grove on Narragansett Parkway is a smaller park with big amenities. It boasts a new playground, nature trails, a kayak launch, and plenty of fishing opportunities.
Savor A Quick Bite
With so much happening, you’ll likely need a quick bite to tide you over between meals or grab delicious to-go options to take with you as you hop between events. For breakfast, Baked & Brewed is a local favorite, with breakfast sandwiches, gourmet coffees, and baked confections. Mousie’s Deli has a variety of sandwiches and sides, which they neatly package for their to-go customers. If it’s pizza you're craving, George’s Pizza and Crusty’s Pizza have pies and slices.
Don’t forget dessert! Papa’s Ice Cream, and Dear Hearts Ice Cream have all of the sundaes, cones, frozen yogurt, and sherbert to end your night on a sweet note. There’s also The Daily Grind, a new ice cream shop that offers 28 different flavors, upgraded caffeinated beverages, and other refreshing drinks to enjoy.
Explore More Summertime Fun
There are many special events happing after the holiday, catering to all interests and age groups. On Friday, July 5th you can catch a movie at Proclamation Ale Co., an improv show at Bring Your Own Improv, or enjoy live music at Dueling Pianos or Apponaug Brewing Company.