The fireworks are just the beginning.

The return of fireworks Friday July 1 in Marion will kick off a three-day weekend _ July 2, 3 and 4 _ of celebration in the Tri-Town, including horses, runners and a festive parade. 

Here is a schedule of events to help you go forth and enjoy the Fourth 

July 1 

The Marion Concert Band will open its 2022 concert season Friday, July 1 with a program of patriotic music in celebration of Independence Day.  

The concert, under the direction of Tobias Monte, will start at 8 p.m. at Silvershell Beach. The evening will conclude with the town's fireworks display.

The program will feature a variety of selections, including “National Emblem March’’ by E. E. Bagley, “Star Spangled Spectacular’’ by George M. Cohan, “American Pageant’’ by Thomas Knox, “God Bless the USA’’ by Lee Greenwood and a salute to the Armed Forces.

The Marion Fireworks will light up the sky for the first time in three years. Fireworks were canceled in 2020 and 2021 because of the covid-19 pandemic and related restrictions. 

The fireworks will take place at dusk off Silvershell Beach in Marion. Members of the Marion Fireworks Committee worked to raise money to ensure that colorful explosions would once again entertain spectators. 

July 3 

The 75th anniversary Marion Horse Show will be held Sunday, July 3 starting at 8 a.m. at Washburn Park, routes 105 and 195, Marion.

To celebrate the 75th anniversary, the competition has added four new categories, dressage, ranch, trail and versatility.

The traditional New England Horseman’s Council categories will also be featured.

The event is open to the public. Food vendors will be available and family-friendly activities are scheduled.

To more information or to register a horse into competition, visit https://marionhorseshow.com/

July 4 

The Mattapoisett 4th of July Road Race is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

The golden anniversary race begins at 9 a.m. July 4 at Shipyard Park.

Online registration is $25 and can be done online at mattapoisettroadrace.com until July 2.

In-person registration is $35 and will be on July 3 from 4 to 6 p.m. and again the morning of the race at 7:30 a.m. at Shipyard Park.

Cash or check only for sign-up on July 3 and 4.

Marion’s traditional Independence Day parade will step off at 9 a.m. July 4.

The parade will form at the ball field behind Marion Town House and adjacent to Sippican School. 

The route proceeds east on Main Street to Spring Street, north on Spring Street to Route 6, east on Route 6 to Front Street, south on Front Street to Main Street, then west on Main Street to the ball field adjacent to Sippican School where the parade will disband.