Home » News » Celebrate Summer Events & Festivals in Plymouth 

The South Shore of Massachusetts is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant towns, and diverse activities. It’s also an ideal place to celebrate the 4th of July in America’s Hometown and some of the other festivals the South Shore is known for each summer.

From July through August, Plymouth is home to visitors from around the state, nation and globe. People are drawn to the historic and natural beauty of the area for some summer fun, exploration and knowledge. Here are just a few of the summer events and festivals for you to enjoy during the summer of 2025. 

July 4th in America’s Hometown 

Each year Plymouth hosts an impressive and memorable Independence Day celebration complete with a road race, live music and, of course, fireworks to end the evening. This event  draws visitors from far and wide to America’s Hometown.

Head to Plymouth to start the day with a special 5K road race followed immediately by the annual 4th of July Parade throughout historic Downtown Plymouth. Throughout the day, you will find food trucks on the Plymouth Waterfront, experience a free seaside concert by the beloved Plymouth “Phil” Philharmonic orchestra and don’t forget to stick around until nightfall when the evening culminates with a huge fireworks display over Plymouth Harbor.

Plymouth Waterfront Festival

Held on the last Saturday of August annually, the Plymouth Waterfront Festival is focused on Plymouth’s historical waterfront. This year the event is planned for August 23rd, 2025. 

Hosted by the Plymouth Area Chamber of Commerce the Waterfront Festival is home to a cornucopia of events and activities. Festival events include the annual duck race, live entertainment, an art and crafts show featuring over 200 exhibitors, local non-profits and the annual Motor Head’s Cruise-In Car Show.

Annual Arts & Crafts Festival 

Held annually on the second weekend of August, the Arts and Crafts Festival comes to the lawn at the Plymouth Public Library at 132 South Street in Plymouth. This year’s event will be held rain or shine from 10 am to 4 pm on August 9th and 10th. 

The Arts & Crafts Festival hosts over 90 local and regional artists working in a variety of media, such as watercolors, paints, clay, pen and ink, and more. Visitors can watch artists while they create their pieces, chat with many of them, and ask questions about their craft. 

Enjoy food, music, live entertainment, and lots of family activities at this annual event. It is a fundraiser to support the Plymouth Public Library’s many cultural, artistic, and educational programs. Come out to support the community while having fun. 

The summer in Plymouth is the perfect time to visit, whether you plan your visit to coincide with one of the festivals or want to avoid the crowds and come on a quiet weekend. You can’t go wrong with visiting historic Plymouth.