The Hillyer Festival Orchestra will return to the stage, with opening act, "Dis N Dat," a steel drum band. The audience is encouraged to bring their blanket or beach chairs, as seating on Derby and Central Wharves is first come, first served. Food will be available for purchase.  

Schedule of Events 

Pre-concert festivities begin at 5:00 p.m. on the main stage with "Dis N Dat," a reggae and steel drum band led by Sista Dee, a wonderful steel drum percussionist. Food tents open on site selling hot dogs, French fries, fried dough, kettle corn, and other fair favorites. Along with food offerings from Salem Gnu Kitchen, School Street Foods (Empanadas), Theara's Spicy Kitchen (Cambodian Cuisine), The Crispy Chicken Cup (Chicken Parmesan + Chicken Broccoli Alfredo).

Opening ceremonies begin at 7:15 p.m. where we will pay tribute to those lost by the COVID-19 pandemic and to celebrate our first responders, medical professionals, and frontline workers whose dedication and commitment never wavered during these difficult times.

At 7:30 p.m., the Hillyer Festival Orchestra (HFO) will perform a two hour 'POPS' concert. Led by maestro Dr. Dirk Hillyer, the HFO is a forty-piece ensemble with vocal soloists performing American standards, movie music, Big Band greats, and Broadway favorites.

A magnificent fireworks display will begin at 9:15 p.m.  The fireworks will be launched from Derby Wharf accompanied live by the Hillyer Festival Orchestra playing the 1812 Overture and other patriotic tunes throughout the entire fireworks display.

Part of the allure of this celebration is its setting. Looking out at Salem harbor with the tall ship FRIENDSHIP, a replica of a 1797 sailing vessel, as a backdrop, Independence Day is truly felt as you are surrounded by the history that helped us to become an independent nation. So bring your beach blankets and chairs and enjoy our grand celebration of our nation’s Independence Day.

Please Note: Salem Celebrates the Fourth will be held on Saturday, July 2, 2022.