The hills are alive with the sound of music, parades, 5K races, and fireworks. It’s the Fourth of July in the Berkshires, and the calendar of events celebrating America’s independence is long and varied. Let freedom ring, sparkle, and boom at these events for July 4, 2026.
James Taylor at Tanglewood
James Taylor’s Fourth of July show is a tradition at Tanglewood. Last year, Sweet Baby James celebrated taking the stage at the Koussevitky Music Shed over 50 times since he first played there in 1974. This year, Taylor and his All-Star Band perform on Friday, July 3 and Saturday, July 4. Both shows start at 8 PM. Expect to hear classics such as “Fire and Rain,” “Country Road,” and “Shed a Little Light.” As is tradition, Taylor’s performance on July 4 will be followed by a stunning fireworks display over Stockbridge Bowl–and he's donating the ticket sales from his holiday performance to support Tanglewood.
Fourth of July in Pittsfield
In 2008, USA Today listed Pittsfield among the 10 best parade venues in the country. Pittsfield pride is on full display July 4 with a parade theme titled “America 250 -
Pittsfield Celebrates the Generations." From military veterans and police officers to EMTs and teachers, all of those who serve others and sacrifice for the community will be honored during the parade. Prior to the parade, registered runners can compete in Pittsfield’s Independence Day 5K race. Start time is 9 AM, and the race follows the parade route. The parade starts at 10 AM rain or shine.
Pittsfield Celebrates the Generations." From military veterans and police officers to EMTs and teachers, all of those who serve others and sacrifice for the community will be honored during the parade. Prior to the parade, registered runners can compete in Pittsfield’s Independence Day 5K race. Start time is 9 AM, and the race follows the parade route. The parade starts at 10 AM rain or shine.
North Adams Fireworks
Take me out to the ballgame... and the fireworks. The annual Fourth of July fireworks display in North Adams attracts thousand of spectators from Berkshire County and the Capital region of New York State. The celebration of America’s birthday starts at 9:30 PM at Noel Field. Prior to the fireworks display, munch on peanuts and crackerjacks and enjoy the annual SteepleCats baseball game. The SteepleCats are part of the New England Collegiate Baseball League, a nonprofit organization known for recruiting superb college talent.
Family July Fourth Activities in Williamstown
Williamstown's 250th anniversary celebrations begin on Friday, July 3, but really shine on Saturday. Begin the morning with a yoga class on the lawn of the Williams Inn before the Farmers Market kicks off. Throughout the rest of the morning and afternoon, all ages can enjoy a variety of events: a parade, kid's activities, and brass band performance. The evening winds down with an exhibit at Williams College and film screening at Images Cinema before the night concludes with a barbecue and fireworks.
Free July Fourth Events in Great Barrington
Great Barrington's summer festival Berkshire Busk! will be in full swing on Saturday, July 4. Attendees can walk around downtown Great Barrington and take in musical and circus acts for free along Main Street and Railroad Street beginning at 6:30 pm. Berkshire Busk! has partnered with the local independent movie theatre the Triplex Cinema to offer a classic movie screening for those that aren't fireworks fans. The screening, produced with help from Hudson's Story Screen Cinema, will take place outdoors at Giggle Park when the sun goes down.
