Salem Derby Wharf Fireworks Back For Heritage Days Aug. 6

SALEM, MA — When the disappointing word came down in April that Salem's annual Fourth of July fireworks at Derby Wharf would be postponed a second straight year out of coronavirus public gathering uncertainties at the time, there was the hopeful pledge that they might be rescheduled for the city's Heritage Days festival in August.

Officials made good on that promise Wednesday when they said the show of bursting color over Salem Harbor will be on Aug. 6 as part of the returning festival Aug. 2 through Aug. 8.

"This year, especially, I'm grateful that we have the opportunity to celebrate all that makes Salem the vibrant and special community that we all love," Salem Mayor Kim Driscoll said. "My thanks to all the organizations, community partners, and city staff whose efforts make this annual event possible."

With all outdoor and business coronavirus-related restrictions lifted, this year's event will include a senior ice cream social and picnic at Winter Island and oceanfront music at Salem Willows.

The highlight is expected to be a live show from the Ward Eights starting at 7 p.m. at Derby Wharf followed by a grand fireworks show from Atlas Pyrovision Entertainment Group around 9 p.m.

"The night promises to be the most fun and most memorable event of the summer season," officials declared.

Also returning for 2021 will be the ice cream tasting and movie at Salem Common on Aug. 4, family bingo at Charlotte Forten Park on Aug. 6 and antique car show at the Phillips House on Chestnut Street on Aug. 8.

First-responders will hold a Tour-A-Truck event with a K-9 demonstration and there will be a Salem Fire & Police vs. Salem Youth basketball game where free snacks and drinks will be provided.

A complete schedule of events is available here.

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(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)

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