Rockets and Rails Community Event and Fireworks

Next date: Friday, July 03, 2026 | 05:00 PM to 10:30 PM

The City of Newton is excited to be bringing back fireworks to celebrate the 250th birthday of our country!

Join us Friday, July 3 at Athletic Park (Fischer Field area) for an evening full of hometown fun. We’ll be set up near the bandshell in the grassy area north of the football stadium with food and drinks, yard games, a kids zone, activities, live music, and more – all leading up to an incredible fireworks display to close out the night.

Speaking of live music, the opening concert will take place in the bandshell starting at 7 p.m., followed by our main act on Fischer Field at 8 p.m. Come early to set up your spot, bring your chairs and blankets, and get ready for a fun evening!

While you’re enjoying the pre-concert activities or during the concerts, be sure to head to the south side of the park to catch opening weekend activities and games of the Mexican American Men’s Fastpitch Tournament, the longest-running tournament of its kind. It’s going to be a high-energy evening across the entire park, and we’re excited to celebrate alongside such a meaningful and long-standing community tradition.

It’s been more than a decade since Newton last hosted a Fourth of July celebration like this, and we can’t wait to celebrate together in a big way!

Schedule of Events

5- 7 p.m. - Welcome, Food and Drink Vendors & Kids/Games Area open
5:45 p.m. - Hot dog eating contest
6:15 p.m. - Ice Cream eating contest
7:00 p.m. - Opening concert: The Sassanachs (in the band shell)
7:45 p.m. - Opening remarks, National Anthem, Colors Presentation, etc. (Fischer Field)
8:00 p.m. - Headliner concert: Stolen Winnebagos (Fischer Field)
10:15 p.m. or dark - Fireworks begin to the South!