Summer is here and the weather is likely to be a scorcher. For me, that means spending as much time outside as possible. While the summer season is full of things to do like hitting the beach, traveling to new places, barbecues, and baseball games, it's also a time to celebrate the country's independence. Memorial Day is often thought of as the kickoff to summer, but it's the Fourth of July when things really get going, and that includes dazzling fireworks displays. If you've been asking yourself "Where to watch fireworks near me," here are some upcoming Independence Day celebrations across New Hampshire.

1. Annual 4th of July Parade & Celebration, Conway

This free event takes place on July 4, 2024, from 1:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Schouler Park in Conway Village. The festivities begin with the annual parade with live music in the afternoon. Stick around during the evening for a stunning fireworks display to end the day. For more information, visit the Conway Parks and Recreation Department.

2. Fireworks Celebration, Portsmouth

Celebrate Independence Day at New Hampshire's most historic seacoast location on July 3, 2024, starting at 9:15 p.m. at South Mill Pond across from Portsmouth City Hall. The event is free and open to the public. Learn more about the city's role in the fight for independence from England, topped off with a fireworks display that is sure to wow. For more information, visit Go Portsmouth.

3. Independence Day Show, Weirs Beach

Weirs Beach claims the title of "first Independence Day show in New Hampshire" and you are invited to join in on July 3, 2024, at 9:30 p.m. Enjoy fun, celebration, and an exciting evening of fireworks over Lake Winnipesaukee. For more information, visit the Weirs Beach Fireworks website.

4. 4th of July Special Fireworks Shoot, Hampton Beach

While fireworks are held every Wednesday evening at Hampton Beach, this annual Fourth of July event is the biggest display of the summer. The festivities happen on July 4, 2024, at 9:30 p.m. on the beach at the top of B and C Streets. For more information, visit the Hampton Beach Village District.

5. Annual 4th of July Celebration, Concord

New Hampshire's capital city celebrates Independence Day at Memorial Field on July 4, 2024, starting at 6 p.m., with the fireworks kicking off at 9:20 p.m. Also, enjoy live music and tastes from a variety of food vendors as part of the evening. For more information, visit the Concord Parks and Recreation Department.

6. Independence Day Celebration, Manchester

The skies light up over New Hampshire's largest city on July 3, 2024, at Ames Park. Admission is free and there will be food vendors and live entertainment. The fireworks kick off at 9:30 p.m. but be sure to arrive early to stake out a great viewing spot. For more information, visit Manchester Ink Link.

7. 4th of July Fireworks and Baseball Game, Nashua

The city of Nashua will be holding its annual fireworks display as part of the Nashua Silver Knights baseball game on July 4, 2024. The game kicks off at 11 a.m. and the first 500 adults get in free. After the game is a free concert, local entertainment, a drum & bugle corps performance, and then the fireworks at dusk. For more information, visit the

City of Nashua website.

I urge you to enjoy these fireworks displays safely and from a comfortable distance. While fireworks are legal here in New Hampshire, these big displays are best left to the professionals, who have safety protocols in place. Also, if you need a comfy camp chair for watching the festivities, L.L. Bean has you covered!