Bristol to Host 230th Consecutive 4th of July Parade

By PATRICK LUCE (Patch Staff)

Thousands are expected to flock to “America’s Most Patriotic Town” as Bristol hosts the oldest 4th of July celebration in the country.

The 230th consecutive 4th of July Parade is scheduled to step off at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, uly 4, from the corner of Hope and Chestnut streets. The parade continues down Hope Street through the downtown historic district, taking a sharp left onto High Street and continuing to the reviewing stand at the former Walley School on High Street.

The parade, led by Chief Marshal State Rep. Raymond Gallison, features some of the top marching bands from across the country, along with dance performances, local and national dignitaries and, of course, lots of cannon and musket fire to pay tribute to the Revolution.

The parade is the highlight of the celebration but there’s plenty leading up to the big event, including

• The Summer Music Preview, a stop on the professional drum & bugle corps circuit, features some of the best drum & bugle corps from around the country. It is scheduled for Friday, July 3 at 6 p.m. at the Mt. Hope High School football field on Chestnut Street.
• The conclusion of the summer concert series, featuring Trinity at 6 p.m. and Songs in the Attic at 7:45 p.m. in Independence Park at the intersection of Hope and Thames streets.
• Fireworks over Bristol Harbor on Friday, July 3 at 9:30 p.m.
• Patriotic Exercises, Saturday, July 4, 8:30 a.m. at Colt Memorial School on Hope Street