By Riley Fontana
Hometown Weekly Reporter
Walpole rang in the Fourth of July with its annual Night Before the Fourth celebration, going all out this year to celebrate its 300th anniversary. The town brought in more fireworks, more parade vehicles, and countless people to enjoy the festivities. The warm weather held out the entire day, providing Walpole and its guests with a wonderful celebration.
The 64th annual firetruck parade kicked off through town at 6:30 p.m., bringing public service vehicles from all across Massachusetts. Foxboro, Framingham, Brookfield, Charlton, Natick, Medway, and Dedham all sent modern and historic firetrucks. In addition to firetrucks, police cars, ambulances, and fire safety vehicles were on display. The Massachusetts Forest Fire Patrol sent a truck with Smokey the Bear riding atop it. Retired army vehicles were also featured during the proceedings. Despite the noise, the firetruck parade is the perfect celebration for all ages, though it may be best to leave dogs at home.
After the parade and before the fireworks, guests were invited to Stone Field behind the fire station to enjoy live music and other festivities. Silver City Band played hits for the crowd covering the grass. Countless people packed the field to grab good spots for fireworks and mingle with friends and family. Behind the fire station, members of different local communities sold refreshments and souvenirs.
To wrap up the tradition, fireworks started at 9:30 p.m. Lighting off from Morgan Field, there was hardly a bad spot to watch the fireworks from in Walpole Center. The crowdfunded fireworks are the fan-favorite event, with cars from all over lining the streets to catch a glimpse of the celebration. The fireworks were bigger and better than ever to celebrate the tercentennial, including the ever-famous grand finale when countless firecrackers light up the sky all at once.
Walpole hosted yet another fantastic Night Before the Fourth in 2024. Every event this year has seen Walpole hitting it out of the park to celebrate its anniversary. Next year is sure to be bigger and better, and Walpole natives are already planning their red, white, and blue festivities.
