RI 2020 Fireworks Canceled: Other Nearby Events

July 4 events across the country will not look the same this year thanks to the coronavirus. Many cities and towns, including those in Rhode Island, have been forced to postpone or cancel the annual Fourth of July events.

The honored Rhode Island tradition will be very scaled back in Bristol, but the parade will still be held as it is every year — 2020 marks the 235th anniversary of the annual patriotic exercises.

In April, the parade's organizers said some events will be postponed until later in the summer because of the coronavirus pandemic and subsequent limits on gatherings.

The parade will step off at 10:30 a.m., as always at the corner of Chestnut Street and Hope Street, ending on High Street, between State Street and Bradford Street. A parking ban will be in place along the parade route starting the night before.

In Newport, the hope is a postponement over a cancellation.

"We're certainly looking forward to lighting up the harbor again soon, and we're hopeful that we'll be able to reschedule this beloved tradition for some time later in the summer, or as soon as the pandemic allows," said Thomas Shevlin, a Newport spokesman said.

In Woonsocket, the city fireworks were postponed on Wednesday.

"The health and well-being of our residents is paramount at this unprecedented time," Woonsocket Director of Human Services Linda Plays said. "We have chosen to postpone this event until we are all able to fully enjoy the festive display. Tentatively, our goal is to plan a Labor Day event, including fireworks."

Once a new date has been confirmed the event will be held on the grounds of the World War II Veterans Memorial Park on Social Street.

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.

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