FITCHBURG — The annual Civic Days Block Party this Friday evening will include traditions such as music, entertainment, pro wrestling, food trucks, vendors, and of course fireworks.
The July 3rd event runs from 4 to 10 p.m. and will take over Boulder Drive and Riverfront Park. A full lineup is sure to provide fun for all ages and the Ray C. Memorial Car Show is included along with fireworks beginning at 9:30 p.m. set off on Rollstone Hill.
The Fourth of July parade on Saturday kicks off at 10 a.m. and goes from Summer Street to Main Street to the Upper Common.
“This year we are celebrating the ‘Veterans of Fitchburg’ as our Civic Days parade grand marshals in honor of America’s 250th birthday,” Mayoral Chief of Staff Myles Phillips-Wilcox shared. “Alan Millett and the veterans council have arranged for representation from all branches of service to walk and ride the parade route and show off the extensive history of community service, sacrifice, and dedication in Fitchburg.”
Fitchburg Access Television (FATV) Executive Director Nate Glenny is part of the hardworking crew who organizes Civic Days along with Fitchburg Public Schools Director of Enrollment & Family Engagement Luisa Fernandez and others.
“For many decades, the Fitchburg Civic Days 4th of July parade has been a tradition for many parade participants, but also for our community to gather and celebrate together,” Glenny said. “The Civic Days Organizing Committee is honored, especially this year, in celebrating America’s 250th birthday with our region.”
He went on to say that while they hope to see everyone out along the parade route, if the hot weather keeps people home have no fear – they can still catch all the fun as FATV will be streaming the parade live starting on Saturday morning at 10 a.m.
“Celebrate with us from wherever you are!” Glenny said.
The WooSox Fitchburg Town Takeover at Polar Park in Worcester is on Thursday, July 9 at 6:45 p.m. Tickets can be purchased by visiting gofevo.com/event/FitchburgTT26, with $5 from every ticket sold donated directly to the Fitchburg Youth Baseball & Softball League.
The Amazing Duck Race returns on Saturday, July 11 from noon to 3 p.m. at Riverfront Park, 40 Commercial St. Participants can enjoy a bouncy house, face painting, food trucks, sweets, Pluck a Duck, and duck race prizes — $1,000 for first place, $750 for second, $500 for third place, $250 for fourth, and the last lazy duck takes home $100.
And this year there’s something new — the Lucky Duck $25,000 prize. Ducks can be purchased at the mayor’s office at Fitchburg City Hall, at the Block Party, or online by visiting fitchburgma.gov/FormCenter/Civic-Days-11/Amazing-Duck-Race-Online-Registration-Fo-79.
Civic Days is a longstanding city tradition dating back to 1960 when it was launched by then Mayor George Bourque and it has grown into a favorite Fourth of July celebration in the greater area.
“Civic Days is Fitchburg’s largest community event, with free public access, family-friendly programming, civic pride, public safety, and a full schedule of summer fun,” Mayor Sam Squailia shared in a social media post promoting beloved the city institution. “See you downtown, at the parade, at the fireworks, and at the duck race!”
Phillips-Wilcox echoed her sentiments, saying holding events like this in Fitchburg is vital.
“It brings together all aspects of our community for positive celebration,” he said. “And to those from throughout the region who attend it highlights our diversity of music, cuisine, entertainment, and promotes all the great businesses, creators, and entrepreneurs we’re so proud of here.”
Fernandez relayed that over the years, the Civic Days Organizing Committee “has truly become like family to me.”
“Every volunteer brings so much passion, dedication, and heart to making sure Fitchburg has the best celebration in the region,” she said. “This year came with its challenges, but by supporting one another and working as a team we are ready to bring to our community another incredible event filled with fun, amazing local businesses, and the community spirit that makes Fitchburg so special.
“I couldn’t be prouder to be part of this committee and all the events that make up Civic Days,” Fernandez continued. “I can’t wait to see our students, families, friends, and neighbors come together to celebrate, make memories, and honor 250 years of American independence. See you at Civic Days!”
For more information visit fitchburgma.gov/596/Civic-Days-Block-Party-Parade and follow Fitchburg Civic Days on Facebook and Instagram.
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