WORCESTER—Worcester celebrated the Fourth of July a couple of days early (but postponed a day from the original date) with a crowd-pleasing, star-spangled night at Cristoforo Colombo Park. Thousands packed East Park on Wednesday, July 2, for an evening that blended live music, festival fare, and community pride.
By late afternoon, early birds had already staked out prime viewing spots on the lawn, while others found pockets of shade and settled in for the night’s entertainment. The smell of hot dogs and fried dough mingled with the sound of pop hits and original songs from Kamryn Richard — the “American Idol” alum who took the stage with her band just before sundown.
As dusk fell, the crowd grew. Ice cream cones dripped. Kids twirled glowsticks. And by the time the first firework burst in the sky at 9:30 p.m., every inch of East Park was alive with cheers and camera flashes. The fireworks show, synchronized with a soundtrack courtesy of WXLO 104.5, offered longtime locals a hit of nostalgia — a modern echo of the old WAAF “SkyBlast” days.
District 2 Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson, whose district includes the park, called the event “an important community tradition.” Mayor Joe Petty, who welcomed the crowd from the stage, put it simply: “It’s great when the community can come together. Have a great time tonight. Happy Fourth of July.”
Photos by Steve Smith
Adrian Cobos makes a large soap bubble with a wand while waiting for the fireworks with family
(L-R) Angelica Batista and Leez Torres said they were enjoying their ice cream and the music.
Brett Saunders played some classic Van Halen riffs (among others) on his EVH-decked small acoustic guitar.
Crowds filled in and food lines got a little longer as the evening’s festivities progressed.
Dylan Loveless plates fried dough, fresh out of the fryer, for the festival-goers
Emily, 3, gets a new look at the Party Time Face Painting booth
An estimated 2,000 came to Cristoforo Colombo Park on July 2 to enjoy music, food, fireworks and fun
Kamryn Richard, who appeared on American Idol in season 23, performed hits and new music with her band
Sergio Salazar draped himself in the American flag to show his patriotism.
Sgt. David Summers of the 272 Chemical Company, U.S. Army raised the flag for the short ceremony to kick off the evening’s entertainment.
(L-r) Theresa Noye, Raquel Madera, Christian Drake, Kylee Shannon and Raquel Martinez got to East Park early to find a shady spot with a good view of the fireworks
Viviana Yamob of Family Health Care of Worcester was giving out stuffed bears and making people aware of their healthcare options, which she said, “is even more important now.”
Xeilani, 3, enjoys a sno-cone on the warm July evening
Mayor Joe Petty thanked the community and city staff for coming together to make the event possible
Steve Smith, a veteran reporter with 17 years at The Hartford Courant, now brings his passion for photojournalism to Worcester. An award-winning photographer, he has covered major events like U.S. soccer, pro football, and UConn basketball. He is also the official photographer for the Miss Massachusetts competition and works as a realtor. Contact him at steve@stevephotographysmith.com
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