Bristol 4th of July Parade

The Traditional Fourth of July Parade will change this year to a vehicle procession with lite entertainment.  It will begin at 8:30 a.m. and will step-off at the corner of Chestnut Street and Hope Street (Rt. 114) and ends on High Street, between State Street and Bradford Street. The vehicle procession will last approximately 45 minutes, and we ask the community to observe all RI Health Department guidance regarding Social Distancing and the Wearing of Masks. We are requesting that the public be aware of this guidance and ensure that you are safe. 

The entire Parade Route along Hope Street and High Street will be flagged for no parking and will be closed starting at 7:30 AM.  This closure will be enforced until the vehicle procession reaches the High Street for the re-opening of Hope Street and the end of the parade for re-opening High Street.  

Other No Parking and Road Closures will be:Chestnut Street from Naomi to Hope, will close at 6:30 AM, and only official vehicles will be allowed, there will be no parking from midnight to noon on July 4th. 

State Street between High Street and Wood Street will close at 7:30 am, the road will not allow any parking from midnight to noon on July 4th.

General Information

• No Port-a-Johns will be available for the public 

Rules and Regulations

Everyone should read the Rules and Regulations set forth by the Fourth of July Committee, as well as the Tips and General Information to ensure a safe and happy environment for all.

• Blankets and chairs are discouraged for this year, since the procession will only be for approximately 45 minutes.   Please do not be set up along the parade route before 5:00 a.m., any materials set up before 5:00 a.m. will be confiscated.

• Overnight camping is prohibited.

• Areas along the parade route may not be roped off, taped off or blocked any way with any object.

• Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

• Fireworks, Silly String, “Poppers”, streamers, waterguns, and projectiles of any kind are prohibited.

• Bicycles, skateboards and in-line skates are prohibited along parade route during parade. Anyone using any such transportation must walk along the parade route with bicycles, skateboards and in-line skates at their side.

• Soliciting along the parade route is illegal!

 Parade Parking

Parking is basically anywhere you can find it. Large lots are open to the public at the corner of Hope and Gooding. Avoid Mt. Hope High School, as the parade forms there and participants will be parking there. If you are parking on residential streets, please be sure to avoid blocking driveways. Police will ticket.

 Street Closings 

Various surrounding streets will be closed beginning at 7:30 a.m., including Poppasquash Road. A parking ban along the parade route goes into effect the night before the parade.