Top Fourth Of July Parties In Connecticut

The Daily Meal Staff|June 26, 2014 7:00 am EST

America is turning 238 next week, and Connecticut is getting ready to celebrate. Last year we told you about the best 4th of July parties in the state, some of which are good bets again this year. But there are other events to consider as well, taking place at traditional summer locales like amusement parks, baseball stadiums and marinas. For a fun holiday with family and friends, you can't go wrong with any of these suggestions.

Riverfest
Mortensen Riverfront Plaza
300 Columbus Blvd.
Hartford, CT 06103
(860) 713-3131
www.riverfront.org

Date: July 12, 2014 at 4 p.m.

In Connecticut, Independence Day doesn't officially end until the capital city hosts its traditional Riverfest. The annual free event will again host several vendors selling a variety of delicious foods. Enjoy live music throughout the event played by some of the best local musicians. And of course at 9 p.m., watch the sky above the Connecticut River light up with fireworks provided this year by the award-winning Atlas Pyrovision.

July 4th Extravaganza
The Marina at American Wharf
1 American Wharf
Norwich, CT 06360
(860) 886-6363
www.americanwharf.com

Date: July 4, 2013 at 7 p.m.

Those seeking a true New England-style Fouth of July should head to the Marina at American Wharf in downtown Norwich. The recently-renovated Marina, located along the Thames River by Long Island Sound, has a pictaresque setting for its 26th extravaganza. In addition to games and family activities, there will be booths offering up lots of tasty food. The event concludes with fireworks after 9 p.m.

New Britain Rock Cats 4th of July
New Britain Stadium
230 John Karbonic Way
New Britain, CT 06051
(860) 224-8383
www.rockcats.com

Date: July 3, 2014 at 7 p.m.

Baseball is the great American pastime, so why not get ready for the Fourth by heading to New Britain stadium to watch the Rock Cats take on the Binghamton Mets. The Samuel Adams Rooftop Bar & Grill will be offering plenty of food and drink specials for the holiday. And after the game – hopefully after a Rock Cats win – stay for a special fireworks show.

3-D Fireworks
Quassy Amusement Park
2132 Middlebury Road
Middlebury, CT 06762
(203) 758-2913
www.quassy.com

Date: July 4, 2014

Connecticut residents owe it to themselves to check out the unbelievable 3-D fireworks display at the Middlebury amusement park. Before it begins, spend the holiday enjoying the dozens of rides, games and exhibits. Cool off at the Splash Bay Water Park where you can get doused by the giant bucket at Saturation Station. A new show from the Quassy Bucket Brigade called "The Beat Is On!" will also be debuting at the Carousel Theater that day. Finally when it gets dark, don your 3-D glasses and watch the fireworks leap.

Mystic Seaport Independence Day Celebration
Mystic Seaport
75 Greenmanville Ave.
Mystic, CT 06355
(860) 572-0711
www.mysticseaport.org

Date: July 4, 2014 at 9 a.m.

Mystic Seaport is one of Connecticut's great historical sites, and it always puts on a unique July 4th celebration. Mystic will take you back to July of 1876, allowing you to imagine you're commemorating America's Centennial. Play croquet and other lawn games, and then enjoy a picnic lunch. For dessert, there's ice cream you can churn yourself. There will be boat races in the morning and a parade in the afternoon, along with music and theater performances. It's the perfect destination if you want to spend the holiday indulging in classic Americana.

Joshua Palmes is a freelance writer covering all things Connecticut. His work can be found on Examiner.com.