Celebrate July 4th the Cape Cod Way – 2025 Parades, Fireworks & Coastal Charm!

There’s nothing quite like a Cape Cod summer, and July is a prime time to soak it all in. When you visit for the Fourth of July, you’re in for a true treat—parades bursting with small-town charm, beachside bonfires, and fireworks that dazzle over the Atlantic. From historic villages to harborside towns, Cape Cod comes alive with patriotic spirit and community celebration.

Massachusetts was the first state to recognize the Fourth of July as an official holiday back in 1781, and you’ll feel that historic pride woven into every town’s festivities. Whether you’re watching fireworks reflect over the bay or waving to antique cars in a seaside parade, Cape Cod offers a one-of-a-kind Independence Day experience.

Looking for a home base for your holiday getaway? New England Vacation Rentals offers a wide selection of professionally managed vacation rentals throughout the Cape—perfect for relaxing after a day of celebration. Check out our last-minute 4th of July Special and save up to 12%!

July 1: Mashpee Community Picnic & Fireworks

Celebrate early at Mashpee High School with a family-friendly festival including food trucks, pony rides, live music, and a vibrant fireworks display.

  • Date: Tuesday, July 1, 2025
  • Time: Festivities begin at 5:00 PM; Fireworks at dusk
  • Location: Mashpee Middle-High School, 500 Old Barnstable Rd, Mashpee

July 2: Orleans Fireworks at Rock Harbor

Enjoy one of the Cape’s most beloved fireworks shows from Rock Harbor or nearby Eastham and Brewster beaches. Arrive early and bring a blanket—it gets chilly after dark!

  • Date: Wednesday, July 2, 2025
  • Time: Fireworks at dusk (approx. 8:45–9:00 PM)
  • Location: Rock Harbor, Orleans

July 4: Hyannis Port Independence Day Parade & Fireworks

Start your day with a quintessential New England parade and cap it off with fireworks over Lewis Bay. Watch from Veterans Beach, Kalmus Beach, or West Yarmouth.

  • Date: Friday, July 4, 2025
  • Time: Parade at 4:00 PM, Fireworks at 9:00 PM
  • Location: Main Street & Lewis Bay, Hyannis

July 4: Provincetown Waterfront Fireworks & Cruise

Experience the magic from land or sea. Dolphin Fleet offers a special fireworks cruise for an unforgettable view—or watch from the harbor shore.

  • Date: Friday, July 4, 2025
  • Time: Fireworks at 9:00 PM; Cruise departs at 8:00 PM
  • Location: MacMillan Pier, Provincetown
  • Admission: Fireworks Free; Cruise requires advance booking

July 4: Chatham Independence Day Parade

One of Cape Cod’s most iconic parades! Expect creative floats, marching bands, and thousands of spectators celebrating in true Chatham style.

  • Date: Friday, July 4, 2025
  • Time: Parade starts at 9:30 AM
  • Location: Downtown Chatham (Main Street)

July 6: Sandwich Fireworks at Sandwich Town Fair

Keep the celebration going with a late firework show during the Sandwich Town Fair. Enjoy rides, games, and treats for the whole family.

  • Date: Sunday, July 6, 2025
  • Time: Fair opens at 6:00 PM; Fireworks at 9:30 PM
  • Location: Sandwich High School, 365 Quaker Meetinghouse Rd
  • Admission: Fair entry and ride fees may apply

Your Home Base for the Fourth

Wherever your Fourth of July adventures take you, New England Vacation Rentals has the perfect home to make your holiday special. From cozy cottages to spacious family homes, our rentals offer comfort, convenience, and the chance to truly live like a Cape Cod local. Find more event information here.

Book your stay now and celebrate Independence Day the Cape Cod way. Contact us at bookings@newenglandvacationrentals.com for local support from our expert team!