The skies over Marblehead Harbor are set to explode with light this July 4, as the town revives its beloved Fireworks and Harbor Illumination celebration following last year’s cancellation.
Last year, the fireworks display was canceled due to a fire on the fireworks barge. The fire occurred in the early morning hours of July 4 and was determined to be accidental, caused by leftover materials from a previous fireworks show in Lynn. While no new fireworks had been loaded for Marblehead’s show and no one was injured, the event was called off.
This year’s festivities begin at 8:45 p.m. with the iconic Harbor Illumination, when flares will be lit around the perimeter of the harbor, creating a glowing red halo. At 9:00 p.m., the main event begins, a fireworks display launched from a barge anchored at the mouth of the harbor, offering panoramic views from Crocker Park, Chandler Hovey Park, Fort Sewall, and countless boats.
“We’re hopeful for a perfect evening,” said Alexander Falk, chair of the Marblehead Fireworks Committee. “We’ve had everything from fog to hurricanes in past years, but the forecast is looking good so far — we’re ready for clear skies and a lot of ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs.’”
The entire fireworks display is funded privately through donations. According to Falk, the committee typically raises about $60,000 each year to fund the show, manage logistics, and provide safety infrastructure, all overseen by a small group of dedicated volunteers who meet regularly throughout the spring.
While 2024’s show was canceled after a barge fire, Falk noted that funds were retained and redirected toward this year’s show and planning for the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026, which is expected to be a significantly larger celebration.
“Our website has everything people need to know — from where to park to drone policies and barge safety zones,” Falk said. “If you’re new to the event or just want to plan ahead, it’s all there at marbleheadfire.works.”
As always, town officials are urging residents to leave the fireworks to the professionals. Fire Chief Jason Gilliland emphasized that even seemingly harmless items like sparklers are illegal in Massachusetts.
“In the last five years, there have been over 550 fires or explosions caused by illegal fireworks,” Gilliland said. “More than 200 people were hospitalized with burns or injuries, and the total damage exceeded $1 million. That’s why we discourage personal fireworks — they’re simply not safe.”
Gilliland noted that the Marblehead Fire Department will respond to any fire or injury, but enforcement and confiscation of fireworks fall under police jurisdiction.
“I’m not saying you need to rat out your neighbors,” he said, “but I wouldn’t want someone lighting off fireworks next to my house either.”
High tide on July 4 is at 7:29 p.m. Low tide will occur after midnight, so boaters should plan anchoring accordingly.
The fireworks barge will be surrounded by a safety zone, marked by four orange buoys and patrolled by the U.S. Coast Guard and civilian barge patrols flying orange “privileged vessel” flags.
Drone operators, both hobbyists and commercial, must adhere to strict rules. Recreational drones are prohibited during the event. Commercial operators must apply for a permit in advance.
In case of severe weather, the rain date is Friday, July 5. Updates will be posted at marbleheadfire.works.
Donations are still being accepted to support this year’s show and help plan for the 2026 anniversary celebration. Contributions are tax-deductible and can be mailed to Abbot Hall (payable to “Town of Marblehead” with “Fireworks” in the memo), donated online at fireworksforever.org, or sent via Venmo @marbleheadfireworks.
“This event only happens because of the generosity of the people in Marblehead,” Falk said. “It’s a powerful example of what a community can do when it comes together.”
