As the 4th of July approaches, the vibrant city of Portland, Maine, gears up to celebrate Independence Day with a plethora of events and activities. Whether you're a local or visiting for the holiday, Portland offers a perfect blend of traditional festivities and unique experiences that make the 4th of July unforgettable. Here’s your guide to Portland's best Independence Day events and activities.
Start the day strong in Freeport, Maine.
Every year, L.L. Bean hosts the July 4th 10K & 1-mile Family Fun Run/Walk, a wonderful opportunity to contribute to the community. All event proceeds support the Southern Maine YMCA, Casco Bay Branch. Register now to participate in this meaningful event!
- 10K Start Time: 7:25 AM
- 1-mile Family Fun Run/Walk Start Time: 9:10 AM
Family-friendly activities in Freeport continue with a parade at 10:00 a.m., LL Bean concerts in the park starting at 7:30 p.m., and fireworks at 9:15 p.m.
Step into the past with Portland by the Foot
Ranked #1 in Portland, Maine, #2 in New England, and #12 in the United States, Portland By the Foot is a unique experience for those looking for a bit of exercise and curious about Portland's history. While celebrating the nation's independence, explore hidden stories of the Indigenous Wabanaki leaders and European Colonizers. Uncover some myths and truths about the great fire that started on July 4th, 1866, and hear about too-often untold stories of Portland’s communities, peoples, and histories.
With a fun and knowledgeable, local guide, stroll along Portland’s cobblestone streets amongst the astonishing Victorian-era buildings, locally owned boutiques, and award-winning restaurants.
For a fantastic adventure into Portland's past and present, book your walking tour now by clicking this link.
Celebrate independence with Award-winning Flavor
In June 2024, two Portland Bakeries brought home the prestigious James Beard Awards, raising the bar for Portland’s already well-known culinary scene.
Before the hotdogs and burgers, enjoy some delicious food from the talented Fujimoto of Portland's Norimoto Bakery, who was acclaimed America’s Best baker by the James Beard Awards. Or treat your taste buds with baked goods from Zu Bakery, winner of the “Outstanding Bakery” award at the 2024 James Beard Awards.
Reel in the Fourth of July fun with a Lobster Tour!
Step aboard the Rocky Bottom Fisheries for an authentic, family-friendly Maine experience. Embrace one of Portland’s most iconic trades with your family while having the salty sea air dancing around you. Rocky Bottom Fisheries offers sunset tours, private charters, and the Lobster Demo, which is best suited for the family. Give your kids the memory of a lifetime by hauling and setting traps, investigating the catch, holding live lobsters, and embracing the Maine sea life.
Summer Sunsets Live and Fourth of July vibes thrive!
Thompson’s Point provides an amazing kid-friendly, pet-friendly environment to soak in the sunset over the majestic Fore River estuary. Listen to some tunes, and indulge in award-winning food trucks. For the Fourth of July, Muddy Ruckus, a "darkly inventive" rock duo, according to the New York Music Daily, will be playing for all to enjoy. With no admission charge, Summer Sunsets Live remains a main attraction for families and friends. It’s an ideal place for kids to run around and for adults to relax, catch up with friends, and enjoy a peaceful sunset view.
- Summer Sunsets Live Opens: 4:00 PM
- Muddy Ruckus Performance: 6:00 PM
For more information, click here
Portland Main(e) event ablaze: fireworks ignite our Fourth of July!
Celebrate Independence Day with the best view of Casco Bay. Whether you are a Maine local or visiting, this is a must-see! Grab your blankets, chairs, family, and friends, and watch fireworks illuminate the night with bursts of magic and wonder.
The City of Portland hosts the most incredible fireworks show on the Eastern Promenade annually. Food trucks offering an array of choices will be available to indulge your taste buds. Known for its captivating performances and dedication to musical excellence, the Casco Bay Wind Symphony will perform starting at 7:00, enchanting audiences with its stirring melodies and dynamic arrangements.
Don’t miss Portland, Maine’s big event of the day!
- Location: Eastern Promenade
- Date: July 4th
- Rain Date: July 5th
- Food: A variety of food trucks
- Music: Casco Bay Wind Symphony starting at 7:00 PM
- Fireworks: Beginning at 9:15 PM
- Street Closures: Many streets will be closed throughout the day. Find all street closure details here.
Maine: “Worth a visit worth a lifetime.”
Your 4th of July experience in Portland, Maine, will be one for the ages! Are you ready to live “the way life should be”? Are you interested in buying a house in Portland, Maine? Partner with Town & Shore Real Estate, the region's leading real estate agency. Their team of experienced agents specializes in helping buyers navigate the complexities of the local market, from pricing strategies to marketing tactics and negotiations.
Contact Town & Shore Real Estate today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a successful sale.
