Fourth of July 2026: Shorewood’s Celebrations and Parade
Fireworks at Atwater Park in Shorewood, Wisconsin
Get ready for a classic Independence Day celebration in Shorewood. The Village of Shorewood and the Shorewood Foundation are bringing back the community’s annual Fourth of July parade and fireworks celebration on Saturday, July 4, 2026, with the parade in the afternoon and fireworks over Lake Michigan at dusk.
Shorewood is one of the best North Shore communities for a relaxed, family-friendly Fourth of July. You can catch the parade, spend time near the lakefront, grab dinner nearby and end the night with fireworks from Atwater Park.
For more nearby celebrations, see our full guide to Fourth of July in Milwaukee’s North Shore and our broader Milwaukee-area Fourth of July guide.
Shorewood Fourth of July 2026 Schedule
2:00 PM — Parade Setup Begins
Parade setup begins at 2:00 PM. Families planning to watch the parade should arrive early, especially if you want a spot near the start of the route or close to Atwater Elementary School.
3:00 PM — Shorewood Independence Day Parade
The Shorewood Fourth of July Parade begins at 3:00 PM. The 2026 parade starts near N. Bartlett Avenue and E. Kensington Boulevard and finishes at Atwater Elementary School.
This year’s Grand Marshals are the Gentlemen of Shorewood, and the parade will once again bring together local groups, families, musicians, decorated vehicles and plenty of hometown spirit.
Because of construction and the modified 2026 route, plan ahead for parking, street closures and a little extra walking. Bring water, sunscreen and a bag for candy if you’re watching with kids.
After the Parade
After the parade, families can make an afternoon of it in Shorewood. Atwater Park and Atwater Beach are a natural destination before the fireworks, with lake views, open green space, a playground and restrooms.
You can also explore more Shorewood ideas before or after the parade in our Shorewood guide, or plan a park stop using our Milwaukee North Shore parks guide.
Fireworks at Atwater Park
The Shorewood fireworks are scheduled for dusk at Atwater Park, located at 4000 N. Lake Drive. The fireworks are presented with support from the Shorewood Foundation, which has long helped make Shorewood’s Fourth of July celebration possible.
Atwater Park is one of the most scenic fireworks viewing spots in the Milwaukee area. Families can watch from the grassy bluff above Lake Michigan, with the fireworks lighting up the sky over the lake.
Plan to arrive early if you want a good spot. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs, and consider packing a flashlight or headlamp for the walk back after dark.
Tips for Families
Parking near Atwater Park can be tight on the Fourth of July, so give yourself extra time and expect to walk a few blocks. If you are coming with younger kids, consider bringing a wagon, snacks, water and layers for the evening lake breeze.
The bluff at Atwater Park is a great viewing area, but it can get crowded. Keep a close eye on kids near the lakefront paths, stairs and railings, especially after dark.
If your family wants a less crowded option, you may also want to compare nearby celebrations in Whitefish Bay, Glendale or Brown Deer.
Volunteers Needed for the Parade
The Village is also looking for volunteers to help with the Fourth of July parade. Volunteers may help line up participants, carry banners and keep the parade moving smoothly.
The Village is also looking for fun vehicles, including convertibles, Jeeps, trucks, motorcycles and other cool cars that could be part of the parade. Interested volunteers or vehicle owners can contact Sarah DeNeve at events@shorewoodwi.gov.
Fourth of July Guides
Looking for more Fourth of July festivities in the area?
Guide to Fourth of July in Milwaukee’s North Shore
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