Fourth of July in Plymouth, Mass

America's Hometown Celebrates with Parades, Concerts and Fireworks

The Fourth of July is all about celebrating America's independence from Britain in 1776, which makes visiting Plymouth, Massachusetts, on July 4 even more meaningful. After all, Plymouth is where the nation's first immigrant settlers claimed their independence from England back in 1620. Today, Plymouth has preserved many of the historic sites of those early settlers, so it's only fitting to walk in their footsteps and salute the birth of Democracy.

Known as "America's Hometown," Plymouth has a lot to live up to in celebrating the Fourth of July. Each year, more than 80,000 people visit the waterfront city to take part in its one-day Fourth of July celebration and immerse themselves in the area's rich heritage.

The theme of the 26th annual Independence Day parade is "Plymouth's Patriotic History Comes Alive." The colorful historical parade is like no other, complete with stunning floats of Pilgrim life, Native American celebrations and patriotic scenes commemorating the independence of our nation. The four divisions are packed with numerous marching units, floats, bands and costumed characters.

The 2006 America's Hometown Fourth of July Celebration kicks off around 9:30am on Tuesday, July 4 in downtown Plymouth. In keeping with tradition, fire engines will lead the parade from Cordage Park Marketplace. The parade moves along Hedge Road and heads south on Court Street to Main Street, where it turns left onto Water Street (at the bottom of Main Street extension) to Plymouth Rock, the traditional reviewing stand.

Later in the evening on July 4, enjoy a lineup of entertainment along the waterfront. At 5pm, juggler Greg Frisbee will perform, followed by the Legion Bud Band at 7pm. Both performances take place on the bandstand in front of Cole's Hill on the waterfront.