Denise Chaapel – Canandaigua BID Director / July 1, 2026
This year’s Fourth of July is more than just fireworks, and the festivities happen over multiple days in Canandaigua.
CANANDAIGUA, NY – This Independence Day, Canandaigua invites residents and visitors to
be part of a once-in-a-generation celebration as the community joins the nation in
commemorating America’s 250th Anniversary. From July 2–5, Historic Downtown Canandaigua
will be filled with patriotic pride, live music, family-friendly entertainment, the beloved Fourth
of July Parade, and culminating into spectacular commemorative fireworks display honoring 250
years of American independence provided by the Town of Canandaigua at dusk at Outhouse
Park.
The celebration begins on Thursday, July 2, as CMAC welcomes back the Rochester
Philharmonic Orchestra for its annual Red, White & Boom concert at 8:00 p.m. This cherished
tradition features stirring Sousa marches, patriotic anthems, audience favorites, and a dazzling
fireworks finale, providing the perfect kickoff to Independence Day weekend.
On Friday, July 4, Downtown Canandaigua proudly continues one of the community’s most
treasured traditions with the Annual Fourth of July Parade, beginning at 10:00 a.m. The parade
will travel along Main Street from City Hall to Booth Street, with the Judges Stand located at
Commons Park. Residents and visitors are encouraged to line Main Street as colorful floats,
marching bands, veterans, first responders, local organizations, and community groups fill
downtown with patriotic spirit in celebration of both Independence Day and America’s historic
250th Anniversary.
FLTV will record the parade and broadcast it as follows:
July 4th at 7 p.m.
July 5 at 9 a.m. And 2 p.m.
July 6 at 9 a.m. And 2 p.m.
Following the parade, visitors are encouraged to spend the day enjoying everything Historic
Downtown Canandaigua has to offer. Browse unique boutiques, enjoy lunch or dinner at locally
owned restaurants, breweries, wineries, and cafés, and experience the welcoming atmosphere
that makes Downtown Canandaigua a favorite destination throughout the Finger Lakes.
This year’s celebration also features an exciting new location for the community fireworks
display. As part of Canandaigua’s America 250 Celebration, the 250th Anniversary Fireworks
Spectacular will take place at Outhouse Park beginning at dusk. The commemorative display will
illuminate the night sky with a breathtaking tribute to 250 years of American independence.
Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs and enjoy this unforgettable community
celebration. Those who have attended in previous years should note that the fireworks have
moved from the waterfront to Outhouse Park for 2026.
Whether you’re enjoying patriotic music with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, waving
flags along Main Street during the parade, shopping and dining throughout Historic Downtown,
or experiencing the spectacular day long activities provided by the Town of Canandaigua and
America 250 Fireworks Spectacular, Canandaigua’s Independence Day celebration promises
something for every generation.
Join us as our community proudly honors 250 years of freedom, history, and the enduring
American spirit. For a complete schedule of events and the latest updates, visit
www.DowntownCanandaigua.com. And www.townofcanandaigua.gov/pageasp?id=319
