New England Travel

It is the oldest continuous Fourth of July celebration in the country.

A Rhode Island town celebrating since 1785 throws one of the best 4th of July events in the nation, according to USA Today readers.

The publication named the top 10 4th of July celebrations in America, part of its 2026 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, and the Bristol Fourth of July Celebration in Bristol, R.I. ranked No. 5. 

“The best 4th of July celebrations do more than light up the sky; they capture the spirit of the holiday,” wrote USA Today. “And they’re rooted in place — anchored by historic squares, waterfronts, memorials, and civic spaces that give real meaning to the holiday. They invite locals and visitors alike to gather, reflect, and celebrate together.”

This year is Bristol’s 241st Fourth of July celebration.

Here’s what USA Today wrote about Bristol:

Bristol Fourth of July Celebration is proud to be the oldest continuous Fourth of July celebration in the country. This Rhode Island classic started in 1785 and is a three-week event, beginning on Flag Day (June 14) with free outdoor concerts, the Orange Crate Derby, and a firefighters’ muster leading up to a Fourth of July Ball. On July 4, you won’t want to miss the Military, Civic, and Firemen’s Parade, which is viewed by more than 200,000 people. It’s no wonder Bristol is nicknamed “America’s most patriotic town.”

The No. 1 4th of July celebration in America is City of Pittsburgh Independence Day Celebration in Pittsburgh, Pa.

For the 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards lists, USA Today travel experts select 20 nominees in topics from food to lodging, destinations to things to do. Then the publication asks readers to cast votes to determine the top 10.

Check out USA Today‘s top 10 4th of July celebrations in America.