Get geared up for a week-long celebration of our democracy. Up and down the Eastern Seaboard, the spirit of our nation is being rekindled for the Sestercentennial. From town greens and village squares to the grand stage of our nation’s capital, we are marking 250 years of independence with parades, concerts, and fireworks.
Newport & Bristol: The Classic New England Fourth
There is no place quite like the “City by the Sea” for the Fourth where Hilary will be celebrating with family & friends. Whether you’re attending the 21-gun salute at the Old Colony House or joining the festivities at the Newport Mansions, the weekend promises to be bigger than ever.
For a truly historic experience, head to nearby Bristol — home to the oldest 4th of July parade in the country. It is a celebration that remains beautifully unchanged by time. Find all of the activities at America’s 250th celebration.
I will be in Newport with my family and new Grandson to watch the festivities. And as always, I will wear a bit of red, white and blue. The day begins at the Old Colony House with an annual reading of the Declaration of Independence and a 21 gun salute. Then off to the beach for fun in the sun. That night we will head to the harbor which is always packed with boats flying the American flag. Creating a truly patriotic scene by the Pell Bridge as the fireworks fly overhead. A fitting tribute to our country on this big birthday.
The Urban Celebration: New York & Washington
New York Harbor becomes the stage for one of the most extraordinary events of the summer as majestic tall ships from around the world gather beneath the Statue of Liberty. Equal parts maritime pageant and patriotic celebration, it’s a rare opportunity to see the city from an entirely new perspective. Watch an evocative video on the spectacle.
What to wear? We shopped at Saks.com to find a Yankee Doodle Dandy collection for everything from picnics to parades. Have a little fun with the festive accessories from Amazon.
In the Capital: No city embraces America’s birthday quite like Washington, D.C. Between the “Great American State Fair” — a nostalgic, elevated nod to our nation’s diversity — and the grand finale on the National Mall, the capital remains the heartbeat of the celebration.
Great American State Fair brings together all fifty states in one place at this festive gathering showcases the food, culture, traditions, and creativity that define America. Think state-fair nostalgia elevated for a landmark national celebration.
The grand finale unfolds on the National Mall, where an unforgettable evening of music, patriotism, and fireworks takes place against the backdrop of Washington’s iconic monuments. This is the centerpiece celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
The Hamptons: Seaside Spirit
One of the most beloved gatherings of the Hamptons summer season, the South Hampton Fresh Air Home’s American Picnic, recently brought the community together on June 27th. Celebrating the Home’s 125th year and the 250th anniversary of America, the evening on Meadow Lane was a resounding success, filled with family fun, a spectacular drone display, and seaside charm in support of a wonderful cause, and plenty of red, white, and blue.
And at the Halsey House, The Southampton History Museum on July 3rd, spend an evening on the grounds of one of the oldest dwellings in New York State while dancing under the stars to live music. Enjoy a selection of exquisite hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and a raw bar stocked with local oysters, in addition to our specially curated silent auction. Make some amazing memories while helping to preserve the history of Southampton.
And for the first time in 30 years, East Hampton Village is bringing back its annual Fourth of July fireworks show directly to Main Beach on Saturday, July 4, 2026. The show is set to begin at dusk, bringing the Independence Day celebration back to the beach.
A Moment of Reflection
While we celebrate, it is worth remembering the cost of the “greatest political journey in human history.” The 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence were an extraordinary, diverse group of men who risked their lives, fortunes, and reputations for the idea of liberty. As Benjamin Franklin famously said, “We must all hang together, or assuredly we shall all hang separately.”
Today, the monument to those 56 brave souls stands on the National Mall — each stone a reminder of the signature they penned to birth a nation.
Sign your own Declaration of Independence here.
