Celebrate the Fourth of July in Bar Harbor!

Summer is around the corner and it’s time to get your July Fourth plans in place! Did you know that Bar Harbor’s Fourth of July celebration has been voted the #1 Fourth of July celebration in America by the Today Show, and has been recognized by National Geographic as one of the top-ten Independence Day celebrations in the U.S.? Just two of the many reasons you can’t miss it! There is nothing like the Fourth of July in Bar Harbor, where coastal charm meets patriotic fun.
 
We are thrilled for the return of our annual event, with a full day of festivities and stunning fireworks over Frenchman Bay. Whether you participate in just a few or all events, spending this holiday in Bar Harbor is bound to be memorable – and may just start a new tradition for you (if it hasn’t already!).
 
When and what is happening? Where are the best spots to watch the Bar Harbor fireworks? We’re sharing the full 2022 details, below.
 
July Fourth Schedule
What’s happening, when and where. Keep in mind that events are subject to change. Be sure to check our Instagram and Facebook page for the latest updates.
 
6 - 9 a.m.: Bar Harbor (MDI) Rotary Club Pancake Breakfast (Bar Harbor Athletic Field on Park Street)
Kick off the day properly fueled at the Bar Harbor Rotary Club’s traditional pancake breakfast. Blueberry or plain pancakes, breakfast sausages, coffee and other beverages will make for a happy morning for everyone in the family. All event proceeds support Rotary projects and local nonprofits, so it’s a feast with a cause.
 
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.: Island Arts Association’s Craft Fair & Marketplace (The YMCA at 21 Park Street)
Celebrate Maine makers and artists by perusing one-of-a-kind handmade crafts and gifts like jewelry, quilts, photography, pottery and porcelain dolls. You’ll discover some great finds, all while supporting the YMCA and YWCA.
  
10 a.m.: Independence Day Parade Kicks Off on Main Street!
Flags, batons, bands, fire trucks and more accompany the community parade as they make their way through downtown Bar Harbor. Starting at Main Street, then Cottage Street, then Eden Street to Mt. Desert Street and Ledgelawn Avenue. Thank you to First National Bank for sponsoring this year's Independence Day Parade.
 
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Lunch Break Hosted by Bar Harbor (MDI) Rotary Club (Bar Harbor Athletic Field on Park Street)
Get your fill of iconic Maine seafood like lobster and crab rolls, or go for all-American hotdogs and hamburgers. Sides like French fries and watermelon will complete the meal, and you’ll be supporting Rotary projects and local nonprofits.
 
3 – 9 p.m.: Live Music at the Town Pier
Get in the summertime swing with this free concert series at the town pier, leading up to the spectacular fireworks! Family-friendly tunes will keep all moving and grooving as you wait for the big event.
 
9:15 p.m. (approximately): Fireworks Begin!
There is nothing more dazzling than fireworks displayed over the water, mirroring each sparkling pop. Bar Harbor’s fireworks display is set over Frenchman Bay. Prepare to “ooh and ah.” Thanks to the Bar Harbor Regency, Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company, Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina, Stewman's Lobster Pound and the Town of Bar Harbor for sponsoring this unforgettable event.
 
Where to Watch Fireworks in Bar Harbor

• On the lawn: The main spot to watch the fireworks in Bar Harbor is on the grassy green lawn of Agamont Park – it’s a good idea to bring blankets, towels and or folding chairs so you can sit back and enjoy the show!
• On the sand: The 2022 July 4 fireworks will coincide with low tide on the sandbar connecting Bar Harbor to Bar Island. Set up your folding chair and towels on the stretch of sand for an awesome summertime venue. Keep in mind that area parking is very limited, so walking to the sandbar is your best bet. And be sure to check the tide chart so you'll know when to return from the sandbar before the tide comes in.
• Paired with dining: If you prefer to enjoy dinner and drinks during the spectacle, there are a few restaurants that offer views of the fireworks. The Fish House Grill, Stewman’s, The Harborside Hotel’s dining options and Terrace Grille at Bar Harbor Inn all are in town and have great views of Frenchman Bay.  Or, catch dinner at The Chart Room and head to the nearby beach at Hulls Cove for a view of the fireworks.

Fourth of July in Bar Harbor: Parking, Island Explorer Schedule & Things to Know