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The Fourth of July means lots of things to different people. For some, it’s a time to get together with family and friends and enjoy each other’s company. For others, it’s the perfect excuse to sit down in front of the television and re-watch Independence Day. For Block Island, the Fourth of July is a mix of it all, with fireworks, cookouts, and a host of other opportunities to have a good time this holiday.

In our annual Independence Day blog post, we’ll round up some of the best events the island has to offer.

A Song of Ice Cream and Fireworks

Officially, the Fourth of July on Block Island kicks off days earlier on the 2^nd, with fireworks lighting up the sky over Crescent Beach. The show won’t start until 9 p.m., giving you plenty of time to spend exploring and enjoying Block Island during the day, and cooling down with what’s sure to be another spectacular display.

This won’t be the only fireworks show to pick from, either. Fireworks at Dusk is returning to Town Beach for 2018. Also taking place on July 2^nd, live music will start at 7:30 p.m. with the main event firing off as soon as it gets dark. The display here can be seen from virtually all points on Block Island, meaning you can watch alongside everyone else or take in the spectacle from your favorite spot. 

Show up early with some chairs and towels in hand and either show has the added benefit of being a great place to picnic for the day.

Enjoy a Bite or Three

No summer holiday is complete without all the food you can eat. For the Fourth, though, not just any food will do. The best way to celebrate Independence Day is with the classics. Cookout food. And sometimes the best way to enjoy that food is by eating platefuls of it in a competition-based setting. That’s exactly what Poor People’s Pub is bringing to the table with their hot dog eating contest.

Anyone interested in either cheering contestants on or signing up to show just how far their stomach can go can do so by calling in anytime between now and the start of the contest. The tables will be set for 12 p.m. at Poor People’s Pub.

Who’s on Parade?

No Fourth of July would be complete without the Annual Block Island Parade, and this year is no different. Head down to Veteran’s park before 11 a.m. on the 4^th to make sure you don’t miss a minute of the fun and excitement. The parade proper will go until 1 p.m., where you’ll be invited to another Block Island staple: the Steak Fry!

Hosted at the Fire Barn, the Annual Steak Fry will feature that classic Fourth of July selection of salads, corn on the cob, and some of the best on the island. All proceeds will benefit the Block Island Fire Department. 

Every year’s parade comes with its own new theme. Last year we looked to the past on all the great times that we’ve experienced through ‘Block Island Memories.’ This time around we’re diving into the world of entertainment and cinema with the theme ‘Favorite Movies.’ Our parade is a tradition that celebrates simplicity. It encourages togetherness and the sense of community that Block Island has created between its locals and the men and women who take the ferry over every chance they get.

Independence Day is more like Independence Week on the Block, guaranteeing that no matter when you land or however long you stay, you’re in for a great time you won’t soon forget. What’s your favorite part of the Fourth of July on Block Island? Let us know in the comments below.

Clear Your Schedule, and Sail Away…