How to Spend July 4 Weekend in Westwood

If you're a Westwood resident without plans for the July 4 weekend, don't fret. From membership activities at Hale Reservation to the first in a summer concert series, there are a few ways for you to celebrate.

Hit the Beach at Hale Reservation

For members of Hale Reservation, in particular its Membership Beach, Sunday will be anything but a bore.

Beginning at around noon on July 4, families from all over will be joining on the beach for a number of games, tournaments and other activities.

The festivities begin with face painting around noon, and commence with events from 1 to 3 p.m.

From a three-legged relay race to a water balloon toss, kids and adults will have something to smile at. At around 4 p.m., members will have the chance to indulge in a game of "greased watermelon," which is just that – a game in which contestants try to retrieve a greased-up watermelon in the water.

While those events transpire, those in attendance will also have the chance to participate in a sand castle contest.

"For the competitors, there's an awards ceremony, and they get a little comment about each one (sand castle)," said Julia Brune, Hale's membership director.

Depending on the weather, Brune said, the day should welcome anywhere from 200 to 400 faces.

Kick Back With Some Tunes at the Westwood Summer Concert Series

To cap off the weekend, residents will have the chance to relax, spread out a blanket and enjoy the first in an ongoing annual summer concert series at The Westwood Senior Center.

The show starts Monday, July 5 with the Westwood Community Swing Band – a 16-piece ensemble that has performed together for more than two decades.

The concert series is sponsored by the Young Women's Club and will run from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on the green by the Senior Center. Westwood Pizza will provide slices of pizza at $1.50 each and whole pizzas for $10. Other refreshments will also be available.

Fireworks Displays

Westwood is not holding a fireworks display this weekend to celebrate Independence Day, but a number of nearby towns will be. Check them out here.