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July 4th in the U.S. – 15 Cities Where to Celebrate

06/29/2023

AND THE BEST fireworks shows

The Independence Day celebrations in the United States offer captivating and fun-filled parties across the nation. For those looking to commemorate July 4th in the U.S., here is a brief yet comprehensive guide to the 15 best places to celebrate America's Birthday!

EDITOR'S NOTE: Especially in big cities like New York City and Chicago, fireworks attract hundreds of thousands of people. If you want to see them from public parks/public spaces (free of charge) it is advisable to arrive well in advance. For those who prefer to avoid the crowds, we recommend going to one of the rooftop bars or restaurants with a view or taking one of the cruises (for a fee).

1 - New York City (New York)

In New York, one of the Independence Day highlights is Macy's fireworks show. Fireworks explode in the middle of the East River framing the iconic NYC Skyline. This is considered the largest event of its kind held on July 4th in the U.S.

2 - New England (Northeast)

The historical towns of New England played a significant role in American independence, thus they organize parades in period costumes and other lavish events. Some of the main events take place in the towns of Sturbridge, Bristol, and Bar Harbor: locations that offer memorable celebrations to remember the historical significance of this day.

3 – Boston (Massachusetts)

One of the most spectacular July 4th celebrations in the U.S. takes place in Boston, where fireworks are accompanied by the Boston Pops Orchestra concert. The pyrotechnic show, which concludes with cannon shots, is held on seven barges on the Charles River, but spectators can enjoy it from the Esplanade or the Longfellow bridges. This is a free event, which begins at 8:00 PM.

4 - Colonial Williamsburg (Virginia)

In Colonial Williamsburg, history comes to life with actors portraying characters from the past, allowing those present to immerse themselves in history. If you wish, you can converse with Thomas Jefferson in person! At 9:30 PM, following a reading of the Declaration of Independence and a concert, fireworks start from the Governor's Palace; the best points to observe them are from Market Square and the Lawn of the Art Museums.

5 - Washington (DC)

On July 4th in the USA, the parade along Constitution Avenue is a must-see event. At the United States Capitol, you can listen to the National Symphony Orchestra concert, which starts at 8:00 PM in the Capitol Fourth Hall; the orchestra will perform Tchaikovsky's famous 1812 Overture. Following the concert, a large-scale firework show is scheduled at National Mall.

6 - Virginia Beach (Virginia)

Virginia Beach celebrates Independence Day with an explosive red, white, and blue party on the beach. Visitors flock to the waterfront to enjoy the bands and street entertainers and finally to savor the firework show over the ocean. This patriotic celebration is free and attracts thousands of people each year, including tourists.

WHERE TO CELEBRATE JULY 4TH IN THE U.S. – THE MAP

7 – Chicago (Illinois)

Chicago's Navy Pier, a historic pier and renowned tourist attraction, organizes one of the best fireworks shows in the U.S. on July 4th. The fireworks, in shades of red, white, and blue start at 9:30 PM, and can be viewed with special "diffraction glasses" provided specifically to enhance the experience. It is advised to arrive early to secure a spot.

8 - Addison, Dallas (Texas)

The suburb of Addison attracts half a million people each year for a grand fireworks display known as Kaboom Town. Over 7,700 pounds of fireworks light up the sky during the 25-minute show: a must-see event for anyone nearby. In addition to the fireworks, there are live concerts and an amusement park with inflatable water slides and various rides for both adults and children.

9 – Nashville (Tennessee)

In the heart of the United States, the Cumberland waterfront in Nashville hosts one of the largest firework displays in the country, making for a truly unforgettable July 4th in the U.S. The fireworks are accompanied by the Nashville Symphony Orchestra, whose performance makes the event particularly thrilling.

10 - Houston (Texas)

Houston celebrates July 4th with the annual Freedom Over Texas event. This festival includes live music, a large firework display, and different events each year. For instance, in 2022, virtual space journeys were organized with NASA. The celebrations take place in Eleanor Tinsley and Sam Houston parks from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with an entry fee of $10 per person.

11 - New Orleans (Louisiana)

Those wanting to enjoy a fun-filled July 4th in the U.S. can celebrate in New Orleans' unique style at the Go 4th on the River event. This event includes historical parades and a spectacular concert with fireworks along the river. The pyrotechnic show starts at 9:00 PM, preceded by family activities, live music, and street food beginning at 5:30 PM.

12 – St. Louis (Missouri)

Another unforgettable July 4th event in the U.S. is the St. Louis Fair, which lasts an entire weekend. With fireworks, live concerts, variety shows, and patriotic parades, it is an unforgettable experience. The celebrations begin on July 2nd at 10:00 AM and conclude with the firework show at 9:30 PM on July 4th, held on the banks of the Mississippi.

13 - Los Angeles (California)

Southern California offers a variety of festivals to celebrate Independence Day. These include the Grand Park Block Party in Los Angeles, fireworks at Disneyland, the Kaboom in Pomona, and the AmericaFest at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, which will be celebrating its 96th birthday in 2023.

14 - Lake Tahoe (Nevada)

The fireworks over Lake Tahoe make this celebration particularly picturesque. The Lights on the Lake show typically begins at 9:45 PM and lasts for 25 minutes. Additionally, in the north area, there is an alternative event at 9:30 PM featuring low-altitude drone-released laser lights. If you arrive a couple of hours earlier, you can gather at the Incline Village Middle School Ball Fields to kick off the celebrations with beer and DJs.

15 - Park City (Utah)

Park City is a historic mining town and skiing destination located about 7.5 miles from Salt Lake City. Independence Day in this location is celebrated with activities for the entire family (breakfast, football, live music) and a commemorative parade at 11:00 AM on Main Street.