From Gorham, NH to Bridgton, ME, your complete guide to July 4th and America 250 happenings across the region
America turns 250 this July 4th, and the Mount Washington Valley is throwing one of the best birthday parties in New England. Whether you want to run a road race at sunrise, hop on a vintage train to catch the fireworks, dig into a mountain-view BBQ, or explore the history behind our nation's founding, there is something family-friendly happening virtually every day this holiday week.
As you spend the week exploring the towns of the Valley, like Tamworth, Gorham, Bridgton and Conway, making a plan to maximize your celebration is the right pro move. To start crafting your itinerary, here is your full guide to the celebrations put on by our Chamber members.
Catch The Spirit: America 250 Celebrations
Settlers Green | July 1–5
Kick off the holiday week at Settlers Green in North Conway for their "Catch The Spirit: America 250 Celebrations” event. Expect sidewalk sales, free American flags, coupon books, family-friendly events like Bubbles and Beats and a T-Shirt Cannon Launch, and a chance to win a $250 gift card giveaway.
America's 250th Birthday BBQ
Cranmore Mountain Resort | Friday, July 3 | 12–3pm
Get the weekend started a day early at Cranmore Mountain Resort. The America's 250th Birthday BBQ at Cranmore will feature live music, refreshing drinks, and great food—all with the iconic mountain as your backdrop.
Town of Conway Fourth of July Parade, Concert & Fireworks
Conway Village & Schouler Park | Saturday, July 4
The centerpiece of the Valley's July 4th is the Town of Conway's beloved annual celebration. The day begins with the parade stepping off at 1:15pm from Kennett Middle School, heading north on Route 16 through Conway Village. The party then moves to Schouler Park, where vendors and entertainment get underway at 3:55pm. The lineup includes the National Anthem, a performance by Tina Titzers School of Dance, and a concert by the NH National Guard 39th Army Band. Fireworks light up the sky at 9:45pm. Admission is free throughout the day.
Win a North Conway Prize Package!
While in Schouler Park, look for the Mt Washington Valley info tent. Post a selfie inside their special North Conway photo frame and get entered to win a hotel stay at The Eastern Slope Inn, $200 Settlers Green gift card and 4 passes to the Cranmore Mountain Adventure Park!
Firecracker Express
Conway Scenic Railroad | Saturday, July 4
Conway Scenic Railroad's annual Firecracker Express is a once-a-year special event that flips the usual direction of operations—trains board at the Conway Depot on West Main Street and travel up the valley to North Conway, arriving just in time for the fireworks display. Trains depart at 4:30pm, 6:15pm, and 8:00pm, with the return trip departing ten minutes after the fireworks conclude.
Fourth of July at Omni Mount Washington Resort
Bretton Woods | Saturday, July 4
Celebrate Independence Day in grand style at one of New England's most iconic landmarks. The Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods offers a spectacular experience set against the backdrop of the Presidential Range.
Gorham, NH July 4th Spectacular
Town of Gorham | July 1–5
Gorham hosts what many consider the most extensive Independence Day celebration in New Hampshire, and this year's America 250 edition is scaled up to match the milestone. The multi-day spectacular runs Wednesday, July 1 through Sunday, July 5, and features something different every day: an open mic night, the Miller Amusements Carnival midway, a Kiddies Parade at 11am on the 4th followed by the Main Parade at 2pm, live music at the Bandstand, a classic car show, and much more. Fireworks launch from the Town Common on July 4th at 10pm. The celebration wraps up Sunday with a classic car parade and show.
Independence Day Celebration in Tamworth, NH
Town of Tamworth | July 4–5
Tamworth's two-day Independence Day celebration is a beloved White Mountain tradition set in one of the region's most picturesque villages. The fun begins on July 4th with the Ordination Rock Run at 8am and the Main Street parade steps off at 11am, followed by family fun from noon to 2pm featuring games, kids' activities, food trucks, live music, and a craft fair. The celebration continues on July 5th at Kenneth A. Brett School, where food trucks and live music begin at 7pm and fireworks light up the sky at 9:30pm.
Jackson Village Fireworks Display
Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce | Sunday, July 5 | 9 PM
Round out the long holiday weekend with one of the most scenic fireworks displays in the region, courtesy of the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce. Fireworks launch from Jackson Village Park on Route 16A at 9pm on Sunday, July 5. Parking is limited, so arriving early is strongly encouraged.
Bridgton's 4 on the Fourth
White Mountain Milers | Bridgton, ME | Saturday, July 4 | 8 AM
For runners, there may be no better way to celebrate America's birthday than lacing up your shoes for this legendary race. Bridgton's 4 on the Fourth, organized by the White Mountain Milers, celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026, making it one of the most historic road races in the region. The race has grown to more than 2,000 finishers and raises funds for the Bridgton Public Library and local nonprofits. A Kids Fun Run takes place the day before, on July 3rd.
Conway Public Library: Celebrating America 250 All Summer Long
The Conway Public Library has been a wonderful community hub for America 250 programming throughout the summer. While the library itself is closed on July 4th, its ongoing series of educational events, running through July, offers something for curious minds of all ages.
Grab a brochure at the front desk or visit here for the complete schedule.