Best things to do on July 4th in Augusta

There will be fun for all on the 4^th of July in Augusta as the Kennebec Valley Chamber has a full slate of events planned for the day.

Part of the Chamber’s “Whatever Festival,” which runs from mid-June until July 4, the day will be filled with events promising fun for the entire family!

First on the docket is “The 4^th At The Fort,” an old-time Independence Day celebration being held at Old Fort Western, located at 16 Cony St. in Augusta. The event runs from noon-6 p.m., for more information, call 6262385.

What would the 4^th be without a traditional parade? Augusta’s parade marches off from the State House at 4 p.m. The route takes it through the city, down State Street to Water Street before it ends at Old Fort Western. Call 626-2350 for more details.

Music fans should head to the Maine Housing parking lot at 5:30 p.m. on the 4^th for a concert from Sundog and Emerald Sky. The event will also feature a wide variety of vendors and bounce houses for the kids. For more information, call 626-2350.

While a city isn’t the usual place for a hayride, anything is possible on the 4^th of July, and starting at 6 p.m., there will be traditional hayrides and trolley rides sponsored by Augusta Recreation on Upper Water Street. Call 626-2350 for more information.

Finally, what would the 4^th be without a spectacular fireworks show to light up the sky? Augusta’s fireworks show will rocket to the skies starting at dusk from the city’s East Side Boat Landing.

Winthrop will also have some fun events going on during the 4^th. At 8 a.m., the 11^th annual Friends on the 4t6h 5K will get going from Norcross Point, call 621-4100 for more. Winthrop’s Norcross Point will also be the site of the town’s fireworks show starting at dusk, call 377-8020 for details.