On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress declared that the 13 American colonies would regard themselves as a new nation, the United States of America, and no longer a part of the British Empire. We have declared the fourth of July in the U.S as a federal holiday to commemorate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues and many other traditions. Being an original colony, the citizens of Connecticut go above and beyond to celebrate our freedom. Here are the top spots to celebrate in the Greater Danbury area!

Friday, July 1st

Danbury: Danbury Fair Mall Annual Fireworks Celebration- Aside from all the great shopping, come out to the Danbury Fair Mall for live music and a firework show starting at dusk! The mall parking lot can be very crowded so I recommend trying to park near the Danbury Post Office or near Trader Joe's!

Saturday, July 2nd

New Milford: Along with fireworks, New Milford has a fun family filled night! New Milford Lions Club hosts a carnival running from 5-10 p.m at Young’s Field. On the Green at 6 pm, the Woman’s Club of Greater New Milford constructs a giant birthday cake in celebration of America’s Birthday! Opening Ceremonies follow with live music that lead up to fireworks starting on Fort Hill/Still Meadow at approximately 9:30 pm.

Monday, July 4, 2016

New Fairfield: Start off your fourth the right way! Support Boy Scout Troop 42 with their Pancake Breakfast! Local scouts will be cooking, dishwashing, making coffee, cashiering, greeting, running, serving and bussing just for you! Serving times to the public are from 7 - 9 a.m. Following breakfast, you'll be in the right spot to watch the New Fairfield Lion's Club 4th of July parade that will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Overbrook Drive. The parade will take place in the middle of town and end at Memorial Field where there will be a ceremony. Refreshments and hot dogs will follow the parade.

Bethel: Bethel will now be offering an 8K to honor the 51st anniversary of the John DeMille Annual Firecracker Road Race. It was also include the Kids Mini-Cracker. Click here for all the details and to register.

Ridgefield: Celebrate our independence in an unique way with the Ridgefield Sand Castle Contest. The Ridgefield Recreation Center is closed, but you and your family can enjoy Martin Park Beach for free (*with Recreation Center ID cards). People of all ages are invited to enter in a free Sand Castle Building Contest. Creations will be judged at 3:30 pm. That night, fireworks will light up the night at Ridgefield High School as the town celebrates Independence Day with music, food, family fun, and fireworks! The American Legion Post 78 will present the Air National Guard Band of the Northeast at 7:00 PM. Bring a picnic dinner or purchase food at the event. Parking passes are required -Purchase a pass for $20 each at Ridgefield Town Hall, Fairfield County Bank, or the Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce (now located at 13 Grove Street).

No matter what you do this Independence Day, have a fun and safe holiday!