Amherst Plans Annual Independence Day Celebration July 3
The free event on July 3 marks the 175th year of the town tradition and includes live entertainment, food vendors, and carnival games.
Amherst will host its annual Independence Day celebration on Friday, July 3 at UMass Amherst's McGuirk Alumni Stadium South Lawn, featuring free admission, live music, food vendors, carnival games, and fireworks at dark.
Festivities begin at 5:30 PM with a range of family-friendly activities. The free event marks both the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding and 175 years of the town's tradition. Town Manager Paul Bockelman said the celebration gives residents a chance to "unite with our neighbors and friends to reaffirm the principles upon which our fragile democracy was founded."
Live entertainment includes Green Street Brew, an a cappella group from Northampton, performing from 5:45 to 6:15 PM. Frost Heaves and Hales will perform from 6:45 to 7:30 PM, followed by the Amherst Community Band from 8:00 to 9:30 PM, leading into the fireworks display.
Food vendors include Batch, Ice Cream Caravan, Island Spice, Local Burger, and others. A UMass Dining beer garden will serve draft beer from Amherst Brewing Company and canned beverages for patrons over 21. Carnival games, inflatable attractions, and tethered hot air balloon rides will be available for families.
Parking is free in designated UMass lots, including lots 21, 22, and 33. The PVTA will operate bus routes B43, 31, 33, and 38 to the event. Road closures will begin at 5:30 PM on Rocky Hill Road from the Amity Street and University Drive intersection in Amherst to Plainville Road in Hadley. Access to Route 116 from Route 9 in Hadley to Meadow Street in North Amherst will close before fireworks.
The Friends of Amherst Recreation accept donations to cover fireworks and entertainment costs. Donations can be made online through PayPal, mailed as a check to Amherst Recreation at 170 Chestnut Street, Suite 1, or given in cash at the event. In case of rain, a rain date is scheduled for Sunday, July 5 at the same time and location.