New Bedford MA Fireworks & Summer Sound Series

NEW BEDFORD – The City is marking America’s 250^th anniversary on July 3 with a special edition of Summer Sound Series featuring two bands and fireworks over the harbor.

Produced by AHA! New Bedford and sponsored by WPRI Channel 12, The Black Whale, Candela Cucina, National Club Mexican Cantina, The Whale’s Tail, New Bedford Light and Explore New Bedford, the NB250 Summer Sound Series fun begins Friday, July 3, at 6 p.m. with Morrissey Boulevard and Autumn Drive taking the stage on Purchase Street for a free concert double-header. Cirque de Light circus entertainers will delight the crowd during the performances with their eye-catching juggling and hula hoop tricks, and families can also visit the New Bedford Art Museum’s artmobile. Local restaurants and bars will be offering refreshments. Free parking is available at the YMCA, Elm Street and Zeiterion parking garages.

The concerts will end at 8:30 p.m. to give attendees plenty of time to head to lower Union Street, the best viewing spot for the annual fireworks display. This year’s fireworks celebration begins at 9 p.m. and is synchronized to a soundtrack of patriotic songs that will play on speakers throughout Downtown. Those watching the fireworks from other locations around New Bedford can turn their radios to WBSM 1420AM or 99.5 FM to hear the soundtrack.

“We encourage residents and visitors to arrive early, spend time Downtown, and enjoy this year’s celebration,” Mayor Jon Mitchell said. “The annual fireworks display remains one of the City’s signature summer traditions, bringing people together from across Greater New Bedford and showcasing the many attractions and businesses that make our City a great place to visit.”

The 2026 Summer Sound Series begins Friday, June 26 (weather permitting)

Photo caption: Fireworks will illuminate the sky over New Bedford Harbor at 9 p.m. Photo courtesy of John Robson