As communities across the country commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the City of Portsmouth will mark the occasion with its annual Independence Day celebration on Friday, July 3, 2026, at South Mill Pond, with a rain date of Sunday, July 5. The alcohol-free, family-friendly event is sponsored by Wilcox Industries and will feature a new laser show sponsored by Key Auto Group of Portsmouth in addition to the annual fireworks display.
Portsmouth’s deep colonial and Revolutionary-era roots make this year’s celebration a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the City’s place in the nation’s founding story. The event is dedicated to honoring veterans and begins at Leary Field at 1:30 pm with opening ceremonies, followed by live music from Black Sheep, Texas Pete, and the Redemption Band, along with food trucks and family activities. At approximately 9 pm, Ally White will sing the National Anthem, followed by the Independence Day fireworks and laser show at 9:15 pm.
photo by David J. Murray / ClearEyePhoto
