A time-honored tradition…
The Amherst 4th of July Celebration is a time-honored tradition where the community comes together as one to mark the birth of the nation. At this quintessential New England affair, Amherst citizens enjoy fireworks and family-oriented activities and a traditional old-time parade on July 4th. These events are brought to all by the Amherst Fourth of July Committee, a 501 (c)3 town committee and through the generosity of local businesses, who help bring the celebration to life.
The town provides seed money of $8,000 but it is up to the Fourth of July Committee to raise the additional funds to host the event. Unfortunately, rising costs have been a challenge and the committee has made hard decisions around where to cut costs and what kinds of entertainment are integral to the event.
Due to the high cost of fireworks, the committee and Board of Selectmen made the decision to cancel the fireworks for 2025. A separate warrant article was drafted asking voters if they approve spending $12,500 for the 2026 fireworks. Ultimately, the future of the fireworks is in the hands of the voters. If they choose to have fireworks, we are happy to host them again in 2026! For more information about the fireworks, please visit the Town of Amherst website here: https://www.amherstnh.gov/fourth-july-committee
While we are not working to fund the fireworks this year, it is our responsibility to raise approximately $6,000 to host the parade and event on the green. It is our goal to make the event family-friendly with a low cost for each activity so that all can enjoy the experience. We cannot achieve this goal without help from local sponsors. Here is a list of recent cost increases:
Fireworks cancelled due to cost increase of $5000
Roaming Railroad cancelled due to cost of $1000
Mini-car Patrol increased by $100
Pipes and Drums increased by $250
Colonial war re-enactors increased by $200
Marching bands increased by $1,000
Children’s entertainment increased by $1000
As we near the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, celebrations like ours become increasingly important. It is integral that we continue to come together as a community and a nation to celebrate our shared heritage and past.
We are happy to speak with you to answer any questions or provide additional details. Please feel free to email the committee at amherstnh4th@gmail.com and a committee member will get back to you.
Tax deductible pledges or donations may be made through the Amherst Community Foundation and either mailed to the address below or by clicking on the link below:
Amherst Fourth of July Donations
Amherst Community Foundation
PO Box 256
Amherst, NH 03031
Please reference “Fourth of July” on the memo field if you choose to send a check.
Thank you in advance for your kindness, generosity, and willingness to help make the Amherst July 4th Celebration a great time for the community.
With many thanks,
Deb Polatchek, Lori Ashooh, Tom Darnall, Liz Boskee and Chris Sylvia
The Amherst Fourth of July Steering Committee