When/Where is Manchester’s Independence Day Celebration this year? This years’ event, our 40th, is scheduled for Saturday, July 5, 2025 (rain date Sunday, July 6, 2025) on the grounds of CT State Community College Manchester (Manchester Community College); 60 Bidwell Street, Manchester, CT.
What time is the event? The event officially opens at 4:00 p.m., however attendees are welcome to arrive earlier to select their preferred viewing spot and to place blanket and chairs for later entrance. Musical entertainment kicks off at 4:30 pm and the first fireworks go up at 9:30 pm. Please, no tents or canopies as they would obstruct the view for others.
Would you ever postpone or cancel the event? The presence of light rain or drizzle isn’t always enough to postpone or cancel the event however if we are anticipating heavy rain, stormy weather or excessive winds we may decide to postpone or cancel. If a decision is made to postpone to rain date or cancel entirely we will get the word out through electronic media, social media and signage at and near the event. The safety and comfort of our residents and all potential attendees is a primary concern of the committee. We make such decisions as early as is possible.
How much is the admission fee? Admission to this event is absolutely free. There is an opportunity to offer a cash donation as you enter campus parking areas but donating is not required. A suggested voluntary donation would be $1 per head or $2 per car load. Food trucks will be on-site and they do charge. Most food trucks accept credit cards but some may require cash. There is no ATM on site.
Is the event kid friendly? Yes! Yes! Yes! We have fun activities for kids of all ages to enjoy.
Are coolers allowed? Yes, small coolers are permitted as well as lawn chairs, blankets and picnic baskets with or without food. Please don’t bring glassware in any form.
Is smoking permitted? The Community College prohibits tobacco/vaping in its buildings and on its grounds and we urge attendees to respect this smoke-free designation.
Are pets allowed? There will be thousands of people walking around, loud music and a very intense fireworks display. It will not be a pet friendly environment and it is strongly recommended that pets be left at home for their own health and safety.
Where can I park? There are ample parking spaces available on campus (in excess of 1900 spaces). Vehicles may enter campus via Hillstown Road or Bidwell Street. The entrance on Wetherell Street will not be open to vehicle traffic. Parking on side streets to campus is usually restricted on event day.
Is handicapped parking available? Yes! Numerous parking spaces are designated handicapped-only (normally closest to the college buildings). Unfortunately, we are unable to offer handicapped parking down by the bandshell due to excessive foot traffic (9,000 attendees expected) and food truck placement in that area.
Can I ride my bike to event? While riding your bike to the event might be considered a great idea it could prove to be problematic because of the vast amount of people in the area. If you do come on a bike we ask that you walk it through the crowd and avoid contact with others. Please do not bring skateboards, hoverboards or scooters to event.
What should I bring to event? You should definitely bring something comfortable to sit on like a camp chair and/or blanket. Be prepared for sun, bugs the heat and possibly even evening coolness. While we have food trucks on site you may want to bring your own snacks and drinks, especially water for hydration.
What shouldn’t I bring to event? Please don’t bring drones, grills, candles, personal fireworks, sparklers, lawn games or weapons.
Can my group or organization sell or solicit on site? No! Outside vendors are not allowed at this event. We limit this event to our own concession vendors, town sponsored activities and marketplace tables.
Will there be food available on-site? Oh yes! We have contracted with a variety of food vendors to be present on event day. These concessions will be situated on the grassy areas off to the right of the bandshell.
Who is the musical entertainment? Two great bands will be taking the stage for your enjoyment. Local sensation “Silver Fox String Band” plays the bandshell 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm followed by one of Connecticut’s favorite and most in demand bands “Nightshift” playing hits from the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s from 7:00 pm – 9:15 pm. Manchester’s own Rylie Pennington, a multi-talented performing artist with credits in film, musical theatre and theatre returns to our bandshell stage to perform the National Anthem just prior to the first fired rocket of the night at 9:30 pm
Will there be an event to celebrate the nation’s 250th next year? We’re already planning for it and have booked our fireworks shooter for next year. Our event will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026. Put it on your calendar!