What better way to celebrate our country’s independence than with Wilton’s traditional celebrations. Here’s your guide to everything that’s happening in Wilton for the July 4th holiday.

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

7 a.m. registration, 8:30 a.m. Freedom Run Road Race (5K):  Held at the WHS Football Field/Track. Race fees are $10 for children 14 years and younger, $20 for individuals 15 years and older. Sign-up in advance at the Parks & Rec office at Comstock Community Center, click here for registration form, or register at the track the morning of the race. All participants receive a t-shirt.

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.

12 noon Frivolity Bowl–Republicans vs. Democrats Softball Game:  Held on the WHS 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 since 1966.

5 p.m. Musical performances:  Music starts at 5 p.m., with fan favorite Retro Express taking the stage at 7:30 p.m..

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

Parking

Patron Parking passes are available at the Wilton Parks and Recreation office in the Comstock Community Center. Patron passes are $35.00 per vehicle. These passes allow patron close parking to the High School Athletic area where the festivities will be held.

The night of the 4th parking is available at locations a bit further away from the Patron Areas for $20.00 per vehicle. 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.

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.

There will be an ice cream truck on site.

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 (July 3 & 4)
Wilton Town Hall and all Wilton Town Offices (July 3 & 4)
Wilton Transfer Station (July 3 & 4)

Ambler Farm Closed July 4

Unlike previous years, 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.

An email was sent out stating:  “We recognize that it’s become a favorite place for many to watch the town fireworks, but safety of our visitors is paramount. Our fields and parking lots are not lit at night, so we are unable to accommodate visitors that leave the farm in the dark after the fireworks end. Our parking lots will be closed that evening. Please also note that parking is not permitted on Hurlbutt St..