Ahead of June 28 fireworks, Waltham residents question date, location and impact

As Waltham’s annual Independence Day celebrations are scheduled for Sunday, June 28, some residents are asking questions about the early date, the fireworks location and the environmental impact of the display.

The early date is due to scheduling availability from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, which oversees activity on the river, according to the mayor’s office.

For many years, Waltham residents gathered at Leary Field to watch the fireworks from the turf, enjoy live music and celebrate with neighbors. But the city stopped using that site in 2023 after the field was redone with new artificial turf, which could be damaged by fireworks.

The fireworks’ new riverfront location has drawn mixed reactions among residents. In response to a Facebook post seeking community input that received more than 90 comments, residents shared a range of views, with several expressing disappointment that the celebration will not take place on July 4.

Several commenters said July 4 holds special significance and expressed disappointment and frustration that the fireworks would not take place on that day.

“I am less inclined to go see them since they are not on July 4th,” Barbara Marriott wrote.

“A large fireworks display should be held each and every year on July 4 to commemorate our country’s independence. This is a special day to celebrate the greatest country in the world. We are privileged to live in it,” Mike Vasquezi said.

However, some residents saw a silver lining in the earlier date.

“For those of us who like to see multiple shows, it’s nice to see the Waltham ones one evening and then still have the option to go into Boston for the 4th,” Jen Klein said.

Some residents also said they wished a larger celebration had taken place in Waltham.

“They could have an event on the Common before the fireworks, or close Moody Street all day and night and make it into a larger street festival,” Rachel Mallet wrote.

Several residents said they prefer Leary Field to the Moody Street Bridge, which can become overcrowded.

“I miss the days at Leary Field. No fighting for space to see,” Andrea Priest said.

“The trees along the riverbank hid the view from anywhere except the Moody Street bridge. It’s too crowded. Since people can’t go on the Riverwalk to view the fireworks, there is no other option than the bridge. It was much more accessible when it was at Leary Field,” Marriott said.

Some expressed concern about the impact of fireworks on wildlife living along the river.

“Fireworks are a Fourth of July tradition, but their impact on the environment is not gentle,” said Emily Norton, executive director of the Charles River Watershed Association. “The loud noise causes fear, stress and anxiety in wild animals, which can drive them out of their homes, into the path of cars or away from nests, abandoning their young.”

Residents also had mixed opinions about fireworks themselves, regardless of when and where they occur.

“The fireworks are such a bittersweet topic for me,” said Paul Nederhoed. “In my humble opinion, I love the tradition and explosive joy it brings me. However, I am also understanding of the pain it brings to many dogs, pets and veterans with PTSD. If we are celebrating our country and community, we should all be caring for each other during this time.”

Because of the potential harm to animals and people, “some communities around the world have banned fireworks or have switched to noiseless fireworks,” Norton said.

The Waltham Land Trust declined to comment.

Mayor Jeannette A. McCarthy had not responded to a request for comment as of press time.

Waltham’s annual Independence Day celebrations will begin at dusk June 28. The fireworks will be set off from a barge near the Moody Street Bridge.