Get ready to paint Otsego County red, white, and blue! This Fourth of July, we’re bringing you an explosion of parades, fireworks, and patriotic pride that stretches from the historic streets of Springfield—home to the oldest Independence Day celebration in the U.S.—to the sparkling shores of Otsego Lake, where the skies light up not once, but twice! And let’s not forget our friends in the south: Oneonta is throwing a celebration that promises to dazzle with its own parade and spectacular fireworks display. Whether you're a parade enthusiast or a fireworks aficionado, we've got enough star-spangled fun to keep you in the spirit all day long. So, grab your flags, slap on some sunscreen, and join us for a Fourth of July you won’t want to miss!
Springfield - July 4
Just north of the Village of Cooperstown, head to Springfield to step back in time at the 110th annual Fourth of July parade, a cherished tradition that holds the title of one of the oldest in New York State and in the US to boot. This massive parade kicks off at 11 AM, and with thousands of attendees each year, you’ll want to stake out your spot early to catch all the action.
As the parade winds down, the celebration heats up: Stick around for an array of vendors, especially the famous Brooks BBQ serving up mouthwatering delights that are sure to satisfy any appetite. Alongside delicious eats, you'll enjoy live music that keeps the patriotic spirit alive and historic displays that offer a glimpse into our nation's past.
The fun doesn’t stop there. At 7:30 PM, the festivities move to the scenic Glimmerglass State Park. Here, you can relax on the grass or dance to more live music as the anticipation builds, and then cap off your night with a spectacular fireworks display over the lake around 9:30 PM. It’s a full day of festivities that combines history, community, and celebration—making Springfield's Fourth of July an unforgettable experience.
Oneonta - July 4 (and July 6)
For those in the southern part of Otsego County, Oneonta offers a vibrant Fourth of July celebration. The festivities kick off with a lively parade on Main Street at 1 PM, showcasing community groups, colorful floats, and marching bands: It’s a perfect start to a day filled with patriotism and community pride.
After the parade, head over to Neahwa Park at 2 PM for a festival packed with entertainment. Enjoy live music, dynamic performances, and an array of vendors offering delicious local eats and crafts. Kids and families can delight in games, bounce houses, and more, making for an afternoon that’s fun for all ages.
As the day winds down, gather your blankets and lawn chairs for the fireworks show at dusk, around 9 PM. Watch the sky over Oneonta light up with an impressive array of colors and patterns, a fitting grand finale to a day of celebration and joy. This full day of activities ensures a memorable Fourth of July in the heart of Otsego County.
While not technically part of the Fourth of July festivities, the celebration doesn't have to end just yet! Thanks to the Cooperstown All Star Village, you can extend your fireworks viewing to July 6th! Every week, on Day 6 of their schedule (find that on our Changeover Hub), the Cooperstown All Star Village holds its closing ceremonies, complete with a dazzling fireworks display. These ceremonies are open to the community, allowing everyone to join in and experience the excitement alongside the baseball families gathered from around the country.
Cooperstown - July 4 with July 5 Fireworks
Cooperstown, affectionately known as America's Main Street, offers a rich tapestry of Fourth of July celebrations: Kick off Independence Day at The Farmers' Museum with the reading of the Declaration of Independence at Noon on the Bump Tavern Green. While you're there, you can participate in 13 celebratory toasts with their special 1840’s recipe lemonade, and enjoy traditional children’s games and artisan demonstrations like blacksmithing and letterpress printing. For a bit of fun, take a spin on the Empire State Carousel, stroll through the Country Village (a working farm no less), pick up unique finds at Todd’s General Store, and visit the famed Cardiff Giant. When it’s time to eat, relax on the tavern green and enjoy classic grilled burgers and hot dogs from The Crossroads Café.
But wait, there's more! On the 5th, join in the community Fireworks Tradition at Lakefront Park for a lakeside picnic and prepare for the breathtaking display over Otsego Lake. This spectacular light show at dusk beautifully caps a day filled with history, community, and patriotic spirit.