Celebrating July 4th in Wilton is truly one of the best things about town. The traditional celebrations lead up to an amazing fireworks show put on by the Parks and Recreation Department. It’s a memorable way to celebrate our country’s independence. GOOD Morning Wilton has your guide to everything that’s happening in Wilton for the July 4th holiday–including an entertainment change up from bands to a DJ!

If there is inclement weather, check online or call the Parks & Rec Information Hotline (203.454.5188) to find out whether festivities get moved to the July 5 rain date.

Tuesday, July 4 (Rain Date for Town Activities—Wednesday, July 5)

7 a.m. registration, 8:30 a.m. Freedom Run Road Race (5K):  Sweat red, white and blue, alongside the usual 200-plus participants in the race, which starts at the WHS Track at Fujitani Field, wraps around past the high school along Kristine Lilly Way to Allen’s Meadows and then back to the track. There are no hills, just easy fun for all. Race fees are $10 each for children 14 years and younger, $20 each for individuals 15 years and older. Sign-up in advance at the Parks & Rec office at Comstock Community Center (180 School Rd.), or register at the track the morning of the race.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wilton Family YMCA Open House: The entire facility will be open and free to the public. Enjoy the 50 meter outdoor pool, the pond and beach at Kiwanis Park, the children’s outdoor splash pool, fitness center, gym and outdoor playgrounds. Bring a friend and enjoy the day. Check in at the front desk on arrival.

12 noon Frivolity Bowl–Democrats vs. Republicans Softball Game:  Held on the Wilton High School varsity softball field. Watch the Wilton Republicans and Wilton Democrats put politics aside and vie for the Frivolity Bucket with a GOOD, old-fashioned softball game. Town dignitaries, board and commission members and members of both parties will be participating. The game has been played for more than 50 years.

5 p.m. DJ/Musical performance:  This year’s celebration includes a DJ, who will orchestrate the night’s musical entertainment (along with a dancer!) for four hours.

9:30 p.m. Fireworks Show, at Wilton High School athletic fields.

Parking

Patron Parking passes are still available at the Wilton Parks and Recreation office in the Comstock Community Center. Patron passes are $35.00 per vehicle. These passes “guarantee” close parking to the High School Athletic area where the festivities will be held, according to Parks & Rec director Steve Pierce. Lots include the tennis courts, Cider Mill, the School Rd./Rte. 7 corner, athletic fields or Board of Education parking lot.

Spaces are limited and passes are issued on a first come, first served basis. Parks and Recreation recommends making requests as soon as possible.

The night of the 4th parking is available at locations a bit further away from the Patron Areas for $20.00 per vehicle on the night of the event. Lots include those at Comstock and the North WHS lot. Parks & Rec officials say there is plenty of parking for all who wish to come.

The evening’s events are paid for by parking revenue—”Everything we’re collecting is paying for that night,” Pierce has told GOOD Morning Wilton.

Tips, Rules and Recommendations

Seating for the event is available in the fields beside Wilton High School behind the barriers. It is on a first come, first served basis. Some people begin setting up as early as 8 a.m., with tables, chairs, blankets and food throughout the day. It’s also recommended to bring some insect repellent and sun coverage if you’re there early.

Food trucks are often on site at the WHS athletic complex.

Personal fireworks of any kind, including sparklers and fountains, are banned in and around the viewing area. Dogs are prohibited at all viewing areas as well. Gas grills are also not allowed, for safety concerns.

What’s Closed:

Wilton Library (July 4)
Wilton Parks and Recreation Office
Wilton Town Hall and all Wilton Town Offices
Wilton Transfer Station

Ambler Farm Closed July 4

Ambler Farm will be closed the evening of July 4. Organizers met with Parks & Rec and determined that the farm must be closed that evening, citing the interest of safety.

Farm officials posted this message on their website:  “Our fields and parking lots are not lit, so we can’t accommodate visitors that leave in the dark. Our parking lots will be closed that evening and parking is not permitted on Hurlbutt Street. Please enjoy the town-wide celebrations near the stadium. The area will be lit and Parks & Rec will have staff and volunteers to assist with parking and other visitor needs. Thank you for your understanding and for helping us put safety first.”