Pittsfield Schedules Fireworks on July 8
PITTSFIELD, Mass.— Fireworks are back on.
In honor of the 250th anniversary of the United States, a fireworks display is scheduled for Wednesday, July 8, at 9:15 p.m. in the area of Wahconah Park.
The Pittsfield Cooperative Bank and George Haddad made "significant" donations toward the display, according to a Thursday press release. The city could not secure a vendor for the Fourth of July, but one was available a few days later due to a cancellation in another state.
"I am grateful for the Pittsfield Cooperative Bank and George Haddad who have offered their support to allow this beloved community tradition to return," Mayor Peter Marchetti said.
"This announcement is the perfect example of how this community comes together to create possibilities."
While there will be no city-sponsored fireworks show on the Fourth of July this year, the historic parade and race will still kick off on the morning of July 4, and other events will take place over the holiday weekend.
Those attending the fireworks display on July 8 will not have access to Wahconah Park, as the site is a construction zone while the grandstand is being demolished. Fireworks can be viewed from the surrounding neighborhood and other locations throughout Pittsfield.
It is important to note that every firework show requires a licensed and certified professional, the press release states. Pittsfield was able to hire a licensed vendor for this display because the company had a show cancellation in another state, opening its availability for Pittsfield on July 8.
The fireworks' rain date is Thursday, July 9, at 9:15 p.m.
The 2026 parade theme, "America 250 — Pittsfield Celebrates the Generations," will celebrate 250 years of the nation and Pittsfield. People, floats, cars, balloons, and more will proceed down South, North, and Wahconah streets to thousands of spectators.
The parade dates back to 1801, and the parade committee was formed in the late 1970s. Today, it brings residents, families, organizations, and visitors together on the Fourth of July, historically kicking off at 10 a.m. on the dot.
Pittsfield 4th of July events include:
- Pittsfield Fourth of July Parade hosted by the Pittsfield Parade Committee; July 4 at 10 a.m., rain or shine, in downtown Pittsfield.
- 4th of July 5K race, sponsored by Berkshire Health Systems and Berkshire Running Foundation; Race begins at 9 a.m. on July 4, just before the parade.?
- The Berkshire Carousel, located at 50 Center Street, is offering free rides and face painting on July 4 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
- 4th Annual Pittsfield Parade Car Show, McKay Street Parking Garage; Sunday, July 5, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
