Event Information
The Fourth of July celebration will take place on July 4, in Amherst Village, with a parade and activities on the Village Green. The parade and activities on the Village Green will only be canceled if there is thunder and lightning. The cancellation would be announced here and on WMUR. There is no rain date.
The Parade and Parade Route
The parade will step off from the Wilkins School (80 Boston Post Rd)at 10am. The parade will then proceed up Boston Post Road, turn right on Foundry Street, left on Davis Lane, left on Main Street and will end at Town Hall. Parade vehicles, other than classic cars and floats, will turn right immediately after the Amherst Town Hall and exit by way of Manchester Road. Classic cars and floats that will be on display will continue around the Village Green to designated parking areas.
Lions Club Bicycle Parade
The children’s bicycle parade meets at 9:00am at Knight’s Field, at the beginning of Main Street, two houses from the library. The parade will travel to Town Hall. State law requires bicycle riders to wear helmets. Judging is 9:30, and step-off time is 9:45am.
Classic Cars
Classic cars will assemble from 8:15 to 9:30am on New Boston Road opposite the Wilkins School. Period dress and US flags are encouraged. Award categories to include: Best Overall, Best Pre-WWII car, Best Pre-1968 car, best convertible and best performance car
Floats
Local organizations, businesses and individuals have decorated floats with this year’s theme. Awards will be announced as part of the reviewing stand ceremony!
American K-9 Country Patriotic Pup Contest - 9:30 am
It’s time to dress your pup up in their best patriotic attire! The Patriotic Pup Contest will be held at 9:30 at the green space across from the Brick School. Judging will take place at 9:40 and first, second and third place will be awarded to the most patriotic pups there! First place will be announced as part of the reviewing stand ceremony by a representative from the Amherst Board of Education. All puppies must remain on leash, with their owner and be sure to clean up after your pup!
Reviewing Stand Ceremony
Join us for the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence, the Campbell Highlanders will play Amazing Grace on the bagpipes and Souhegan Valley Chorus will sing the National Anthem. Josh McElveen will emcee the ceremony. Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander will say words of welcome. State and local dignitaries will be introduced, and the Amherst Lions Club President will announce the Citizen of the Year.
Local Dignitaries
Each year our state and local leaders are invited to march as New Hampshire Dignitaries. The include State Representatives, State Senators, Executive Counselors, Town Administrators, School Representatives and the Amherst Board of Selectmen.
The Village Green
Activities on the green will be varied. There will be farm animals at the Middle Street end of the Village Green. The Pocket Lady will roam the Green, giving small gifts to children. Crikey the Clown and her clown friends will make balloon animals. Katie Leishman will paint faces. George Saterial will be host a magic show.
Food and Drinks
With the help of Moulton’s, the Fourth of July Committee will sell hamburgers, hotdogs, pizza, slushies, and drinks. Messiah Lutheran Church will sell cotton candy and the Lions Club will sell popcorn. *As internet service is spotty, all sales will be cash only.
Water
The Fourth of July Committee will sell water at the food table, at the Information booth, and at booths near the slush stand and the artisans. *As internet service is spotty, all sales will be cash only.
Organization Booths
Many local organizations will hold booths on the green where they will have information about their group. Several will also offer unique items for sale. Stop by to support and learn more about the local organizations that are integral to the community.
Art Show and Old-Time Craft Demonstrations
Stroll down artist’s alley on the Church side of the Village Green to enjoy the fine art. Old-time craftspeople will include a beekeeper, spinning, quilting, and other local artisans.
Magic Show
George Saterial will host a magic show from 11am-11:45am. Prepare to be amazed! Bring a blanket if you want!
Bathrooms
Bathrooms are available in the Brick School and the Amherst Congregational Church. There will also be PortaPotties, located to the right of Town Hall.
Information Booth
At the Information booth on the main walkway of the Village Green you will find pertinent information, water sales, and commemorative stickers.
Historical Museums
Visit the Historical Society’s Chapel and Wigwam museums, located on Middle Street.
Accessible Parking
The BMA Architectural Group parking lot at 12 Middle Street will be available for accessible parking. There is accessible seating on the adjacent lawn facing the reviewing stand on Main Street.