South Shore 2020 MA Fireworks Canceled: Other Nearby Events

HINGHAM, MA — July 4 events across the country will look different this year thanks to the coronavirus. Many cities and towns have been forced to cancel the annual Independence Day events, including those on the South Shore and South Coast.

Gov. Charlie Baker has said that backyard cookouts are OK. But police throughout the state remind residents that fireworks possession is illegal in MA amid a dramatic increase in noise complaints over years past.

In Hingham, this would have been the the 61st continuous running of the Hingham Road Race. One of the region's oldest footraces, this premier event annually starts the Independence Day celebration.

"The decision to cancel the July 4th events follows numerous meetings between each of the individual planning committees for the parade, Harborworks, and the road race, Hingham Police, Hingham Fire and the Hingham Downtown Association," Hingham Police Chief Glenn Olsson said. "I would mention that this was not an easy decision, but we all feel it was the right one. ... They are eager to keep the spirit alive for next year's 4th of July celebration."

In Plymouth, money that was supposed to go toward the fireworks will instead go to support local residents affected by the virus, with a $1,000 donation to the Plymouth food pantry through the South Shore Community Action Council.

"During this crisis, we see a number of our local families and community businesses doing everything they can to survive financially, sometimes day-to-day," the Plymouth 4th of July Committee announced. "At this time, we feel that this is our chance to return the goodwill has bestowed upon us and help."

Cities and towns across the region postponed or canceled their annual fireworks, events and parades. There one local event to watch: Although the Boston July 4 Fireworks show was canceled, the iconic Boston Pops will still hold a musical performance online.

The event will air on Bloomberg Television, Bloomberg Radio, and Boston's WHDH-TV at 8 p.m. Saturday, July 4. Boston Pops Salute to Our Heroes will also be available to live stream at Bloomberg.com.

Due to the pandemic, counties or cities may adjust or cancel events at the last minute. Check your event before you go. Know of other events in the area? Post them on the Patch calendar or share details on our free Neighbor Post feature.

Check out this roundup of everything from barbecue essentials to patriotic table decor to be sure your July 4 is the best in the USA.