Getting Back to Our "Routes!" Fourth of July Itinerary of Events and Helpful Tips

With the Fourth of July coming up this weekend, please take a moment to review the following schedule of events, and some suggestions for those attending Washington Square Roots' celebration of the square's patriotic history.



9:00AM - The festivities will begin with the Artillery Company of Newport's march to the grave of William Ellery, where they will pay tribute to Newport's own signer of the Declaration of Independence.

9:00AM - Visitors are invited to begin the self-guided walking tour of the original 1810 Citizen's Parade of Newport, beginning and ending in Washington Square.

10:00AM - The Newport County Band will perform patriotic tunes in Washington Square's Eisenhower Park. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs, and enjoy the festive atmosphere!

10:30AM - People's Parade procession beginning at Storer Park. Visitors are encouraged to gather at Storer's Park for a procession up Long Wharf, through Brick Market, and into Washington Square. This is the path visitors to Newport took for centuries upon their arrival to the city.

11:00AM - A public reading of the Declaration of Independence by the Sons of the Revolution from the Old Colony House. Follow along with your free copy of the Declaration of Independence, distributed by the 'Sons!' As Newport was the first recognized Capitol of the State of Rhode Island, the old Colony House was our first State House.

Noon - A cannon salute by the Artillery Company of Newport using original colonial artillery!

12:30PM - Organized "Square" dancing in Eisenhower park. Visitors are encouraged to bring a blanket and lawn chairs, and visit some of the local businesses in the square.

*Be sure to check out the fantastic collection of historical documents that will be on display at the Colony House, courtesy of the Newport Historical Society*



Additional tips for visitors

-As it will be a holiday weekend, visitors that arrive later in the morning may find it difficult to find parking. Our suggestion would be to park at the Gateway Visitor's Center on America's Cup Avenue and take the short walk into the square.

-Weather in our fair city can be somewhat fickle this time of year, and just because it may be cool in the morning, the temperature will surely be on the rise as the day progresses. While there is plenty of shade in Eisenhower Park, those people choosing to participate in the Citizen's Parade, and subsequent procession from Storer Park should remember to bring bottled water, sunscreen, a hat, and their most comfortable walking shoes.

-If you did not get a copy of the parade route in the Newport Daily News on Wednesday June 30th, there will be plenty of free copies distributed on the day of the event. This map will provide you with an unparalleled view of Newport 100 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and makes for a great memento of your time in Newport.

-Be sure to wear your most patriotic garb! And if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask the people around you - we are a friendly lot, and will be there to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable day!!