This year’s Fourth of July celebration was one to remember. From dancing aliens and magicians to the annual afternoon lobster luncheon and fireworks at Crocker Park, there was fun to be had by all who celebrated. The Marblehead Festival of Arts draws in people of all ages and backgrounds — and everyone has a story. We asked festival-goers what brings them here, what keeps them coming back and what this day means to them. Here’s what they had to say.
Dr. Corine Barone and Dr. Dennis O’Connor have each lived in Marblehead for over 30 years and see the Festival of Arts as the true spirit of their town — neighbors coming together to volunteer, celebrate and showcase local talent. Both Rotary Club members and longtime volunteers, they’ve joined the Fourth of July festivities many times and love how, despite changes in size and schedule, the Festival remains one of Marblehead’s most meaningful traditions. “Marblehead is a big destination for the Fourth of July, with the fireworks and the Festival,” says O’Connor.
“I always take this week off — it’s the best place to be,” adds Barone. “The concerts, the professionalism, the talent… it’s just incredible.”
Brady Weed is a recent graduate of Marblehead High School. He has been an active member of the performing arts since his freshman year. His first time performing for the Festival of Arts was in 2023 with Griffin Collins, who also attended MHS and performed at the Festival this year. Weed says of the experience, “Having performed in more formal spaces, I feel like there’s less pressure because when it’s just me up there, I’m in complete control of recovering, so I can laugh it off and adjust on the fly.” He shares that, aside from live performances, his favorite event during the Festival is the Film Festival, which shows films from all over the world and features student-made pieces. “The young people in this town are some of the most talented young people on the North Shore, and this experience allows for them to exhibit their work in incredible ways.”
Angela Trepasso and Matt Raven, along with their young daughter Andie, shared that this was their fifth experience of Fourth of July in Marblehead since moving here. “The first Festival that we came to after moving to Marblehead, we were just pinching ourselves thinking how incredible it is that kids have the experience growing up here, on the harbor and with such a kind and welcoming community,” shares Trepasso. They love the wide-range of experiences, from kids’ arts and crafts to music and fireworks over the water. Aside from the joy and festivities of the holiday weekend, as Matt and Angela reflect, it is the tight knit sense of community that blossoms from the excitement and environment that set Marblehead apart and make it such a special place for so many families.
Joseph Mushipi is an artist, originally from Zambia in Africa, who has come from his home of Providence, Rhode Island, to share and sell his artwork at the Marblehead Festival of Arts. His artwork is vivid, colorful and expressive of his culture and heritage. As an artist, he has been to many festivals and heard about this one through his community of fellow artists. “This is my first time at the Marblehead Festival of Arts,” he shares. “The experience has allowed me to make good sales and meet lots of people.” He was one of the many artist vendors at Abbott Hall, and around town, who come from near and far to share their artwork. The ability for artists to showcase and profit off of their talent is part of what makes the Festival so special and why it draws so many people.
Ella (left) and Carissa visited Marblehead to experience the Festival. While this year is Carissa’s first time, Ella has grown up experiencing it with her family and friends. “It’s been a wonderful experience for my first time,” shares Carissa. “The music’s great, the scenery is beautiful.” They both agree that the Festival is a great chance for everyone to experience music and celebration. “I love the spot up here the most,” says Ella about Crocker Park. “It’s such a good time because you get to be by the water and see the fireworks on the harbor.” As a seasoned veteran and a first-timer, the pair goes to show that whether the experience is new or old to you, it’s always a wonderful experience and has something new for everyone each year.
