Guide to 4th of July Weekend in Waterville
The 4th of July is right around the corner, and there’s no better place to celebrate than Waterville Valley. Whether you're here for the fireworks or looking for family-friendly adventures in the heart of the White Mountains, this all-American weekend is packed with activities, music, creativity, and community spirit. Here's everything happening this Independence Day weekend:
Thursday, July 3rd
WOODLAND FAIRY HOUSE BUILDING | 10AM-12PM
Kick off the weekend with an enchanting activity for children. Let their imaginations run wild as they build tiny woodland dwellings using natural materials in a shaded forest setting.
Location: Rey Center Community Garden
TIE-DYE BY THE POND | 1-3PM
Design your own wearable art with a stunning mountain backdrop. Bring your own white T-shirt or purchase one from Dreams and Visions, Jugtown Country Store, or Sport Thoma. T-shirts are not provided, and supplies are limited—first come, first served.
Location: Field between Ice Arena & Corcoran Pond (Rain location: TSQ Meeting Place)
SIP N’ PAINT | 6-8PM
Relax and unleash your inner artist at Kalki Indian Cuisine. Enjoy a guided painting session, drinks, and a creative atmosphere. Come solo or with friends and leave with a masterpiece.
FRIDAY, JULY 4TH
4TH OF JULY PARADE | 10:30AM-12PM
Join in or cheer from the sidelines as decorated floats, music, and community pride fill the streets. Participants can walk, bike, or scooter the route. Businesses and community groups compete for the coveted Spirit Cup!
Pre-registration required for float entries.
LIVE MUSIC IN TOWN SQUARE | 12-3PM & 6:30-9:30PM
Enjoy summer tunes from the Gazebo. Whether you’re on the beach, in the courtyard, or boating on Corcoran Pond, the music sets the perfect mood.
Presented by Waterville Valley Resort.
WVAIA ANNUAL 4TH OF JULY PICNIC | 12-3PM
Celebrate summer with the Waterville Valley Athletic & Improvement Association at the Snowy Owl Inn. Bring your own food—grills will be provided. A cash bar and potluck dessert contest round out this festive gathering.
Location: Snowy Owl Inn
CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT | 3-5PM
Join the weekly Cornhole Tournament, now sponsored by Olde Waterville Pizza Co. All participants receive a 20% discount on food purchases. Compete for a $50 local gift card and ultimate bragging rights.
Location: Field between Ice Arena & Corcoran Pond
WATERVILLE RODEO NIGHT | 4-8PM
Town Square transforms into a Western-themed celebration with mechanical bull riding and a photo booth. Great fun for all ages.
4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS | 9:30PM
Cap off the day with a spectacular fireworks show over Corcoran Pond. Bring a blanket, sip a favorite beverage, and enjoy this Waterville Valley tradition.
Show begins promptly at 9:30 PM
SATURDAY, JULY 5TH
HISTORICAL TROLLEY TOURS | 10-11AM
Discover the history of Waterville Valley on a scenic trolley ride. Tours depart from the Town Square trolley stop and are free of charge.
No reservations required.
BALLOON ANIMALS | 10:30AM-2:30PM
Watch whimsical creations take shape. From unicorns to pirate swords, balloon artistry delights kids and adults alike.
FAMILY CARNIVAL | 11AM-3PM
Held rain or shine on Packards Field, this favorite features inflatables, music, mini-golf, relay races, tie-dye, a dunk tank, and more.
Tickets available for $20 on-site.
FACE PAINTING | 2-6PM
Transform into your favorite character with professional face painting in Town Square. Fun for all ages.
LIVE MUSIC IN TOWN SQUARE | 6-9PM
Enjoy more live music as the sun sets over the valley. It’s the perfect way to wind down after a full day of fun.
Presented by Waterville Valley Resort.
SUNDAY, JULY 6TH
SUNDAY MORNING CHURCH CHAIR | 8:30AM
Begin your day with a peaceful morning service set against the natural beauty of Waterville Valley. Guests will load Snow’s Mountain chair between 8:30am-8:50am and the service will begin once the last guest arrives at the summit (9am). Guests will then have the option to ride the lift down or hike down after the service.
The chairlift ride is complimentary for this church service.
HISTORICAL TROLLEY TOURS | 10-11AM
If you missed Saturday's tour, you have another chance to explore Waterville Valley’s history on Sunday morning.
ANIMAL ENCOUNTER SERIES: ANIMAL ADAPTATIONS | 10AM
Hosted by Squam Lakes Science Center, this live animal presentation takes place in the Lower Courtyard of Town Square. Learn about native New Hampshire wildlife and the adaptations that help them thrive.
FAMILY ACTIVITIES
Soak up the last bits of summer in our outdoor playground! From boat rentals to bike rentals, trips up Snow’s Mountain and trips to Legends Arcade - there's no shortage of family outings & activities over the weekend!