Top Spots for Fourth of July Fireworks Viewing

Time to don your best red, white, and blue attire ... and perhaps grab some earplugs (for both you and your furry friends!).

As America's birthday approaches, towns and cities nationwide are gearing up with grand parades, festive events, and patriotic fireworks that will light up the night sky.

While backyard sparklers and firecrackers can be fun (as long as fire hazards aren't a concern), if you're looking to witness the most dazzling and impressive fireworks displays alongside exciting events, we’ve compiled a list just for you.

New Orleans

Date: July 4 at 6 p.m.

New Orleans boasts rich musical heritage and a significant port history, making its "Go 4th on the River" fireworks display a fitting homage to both. Each year, the General Roy S. Kelley fireboat takes center stage, launching vibrant red, white, and blue fireworks from its deck. Viewing is optimal from anywhere along the riverfront, but Crescent Park offers an excellent vantage point for pre-fireworks concerts. Alternatively, consider booking a special Independence Day dinner cruise on the Creole Queen or Steamboat Natchez.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Date: July 4, beginning at 7 a.m. (fireworks at around 9:15 p.m.)

Bar Harbor's Fourth of July celebration, highlighted by the "Today" show and various publications as one of the nation's premier fireworks displays, takes full advantage of its prime location at the entrance to Acadia National Park. The breathtaking display is beautifully reflected in the waters of Frenchman Bay. The festivities kick off with a pancake breakfast at 7 a.m., followed by a parade at 10 a.m., and continue with a variety of activities including a seafood festival throughout the day.

The most sought-after viewing spot is the lawn at Agamont Park, where guests relax on blankets, towels, or folding chairs to take in the show. Many waterfront restaurants also provide excellent seating for those wishing to enjoy a meal while watching the celebrations unfold.

Angel Fire, New Mexico

Date: July 5 at 8:45 p.m.

Continue your festivities with the unique day-after show at Frontier Park, where hundreds of drones illuminate the sky over the northern New Mexico mountains, delivering a stunning fire-free performance.

The viewing event begins with an afternoon filled with live music from 3 to 7 p.m., culminating in the drone show at 8:45 p.m.

Beech Mountain, North Carolina

Date: July 6 at 5 p.m.

Beech Mountain pulls out all the stops for its celebration at the ski resort atop Beech Mountain. The festivities kick off with the annual Beech Mountain Hog Roast (celebrating its 53rd year!), featuring drive-thru service at Fred's Gazebo from 4 to 7 p.m.

Starting at 5 p.m., attendees can enjoy a lineup of free activities including music, scenic lift rides, and games for the entire family. The evening culminates with dancing under the stars and a nighttime fireworks show above Beech Mountain's summit. For a fee, Beech Mountain Brewing Company will serve craft beer alongside a crawfish cookout from 12 to 4 p.m.

Boston

Date: July 4, from 8 to 11 p.m.

Boston's celebrated "Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular" unfolds along the Charles River at the DCR Hatch Shell on the Esplanade between the Longfellow and Massachusetts Avenue bridges. Regardless of weather, the beloved orchestra performs at 8 p.m., presenting a concert of patriotic classics. The fireworks display, visible from both the Boston and Cambridge banks of the river, begins at 10 p.m., subject to change based on conditions. The grand finale features a powerful rendition of Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture," accompanied by cannon fire and a stunning array of fireworks lighting up the sky.

St. Louis

Date: July 4, beginning at 10 a.m.

This year, St. Louis enhances its Independence Day celebrations with the launch of the "Celebrate Saint Louis July 4th Festival." Kicking off with America's Birthday Parade at 10 a.m. from Market Street, concluding at the Gateway Arch, the day will also feature the 150th anniversary of Eads Bridge, concerts beneath the arch, and an airshow with a pilot from "Top Gun: Maverick."

Open to everyone, the event boasts food and beverage vendors along with numerous family-friendly activities. The city's iconic fireworks display, set against the stunning backdrop of the Gateway Arch and the Mississippi River, will be the highlight of the celebration. Enhance your experience with a narrated riverfront cruise.

Dahlonega, Georgia

Date: July 4, all day

Dahlonega's Independence Day celebration is marked by old-fashioned small-town charm and family-friendly activities. Centered around the historic town square, the day's highlights include a traditional Firecracker 5K and Fun Run, a patriotic parade, a classic car show, as well as face painting and games for children. Food trucks, live music, and craft booths enhance the festive atmosphere for all ages.

The spectacular fireworks display can be seen throughout the town, but for the best views, make your way to the drill fields at the University of North Georgia.

Nashville

Date: July 4 at 9:30 p.m.

No Fourth of July celebration in Music City would be complete without live music. Nashville's "Let Freedom Sing!" event promises an abundance of it, paired with one of the largest fireworks displays in the nation. This year’s headliner is Chris Young, alongside performances by YOLA, Girl Named Tom, Blessing Offor, and more. The free, family-friendly event takes place in downtown Nashville and features an extensive fireworks show synchronized to a live performance by the Grammy-winning Nashville Symphony.

While admission is free, you can reserve a premium viewing area with a view of the Cumberland River for a fee.

New York City

Date: July 4 at 8 p.m.

This year marks the 48th annual Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks celebration, featuring a dazzling array of fireworks choreographed to an exciting mix of patriotic and popular music.

The breathtaking pyrotechnic show lasts for 25 minutes, launching approximately 1,920 shells and effects each minute from barges along the Hudson River. There are multiple viewing locations, but it's advisable to arrive early for the best spots, as some areas may close once they reach capacity.

If you can't attend in person, you can catch the show live on NBC or stream it on Peacock.

Redding, California

Date: July 4 at 10 p.m.

Taking place at the Redding Civic Auditorium, the city's annual "Freedom Festival" ranks among California's largest Fourth of July celebrations, featuring a fireworks show with over 1,700 shells. Arrive early for the best seating and enjoy live music starting at 7 p.m., along with a variety of options from local food and beverage vendors. Additionally, Redding's stunning Sundial Bridge, designed by the celebrated Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, will commemorate its 20th anniversary on July 4.

Denver

Date: July 3 at 9:15 p.m.

Denver's official city event kicks off on Independence Eve with live music, a diverse array of food options, and an exciting drone show at Civic Center Park. The city will also host a weekend-long celebration, featuring expanded museum exhibitions, street food gatherings, and a plethora of thrilling activities.

Washington, DC

Date: July 4 at 9 p.m.

Few places are as fitting to celebrate our nation's independence as the capital. Washington, D.C.'s official celebration, organized by the National Park Service, occurs on the National Mall and features one of the most spectacular fireworks displays in the country, set against the backdrop of iconic national monuments and memorials. The annual star-studded concert, "A Capitol Fourth," begins at 8 p.m. For those unable to attend, the event will be livestreamed by PBS.

Fireworks are launched from the edges of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, and attendees can access the National Mall from various locations to secure the best viewing spots.

San Diego

Date: July 4 at 9 p.m.

San Diego hosts its city-sponsored fireworks display, "Big Bay Boom," from four separate barges on San Diego Bay, ensuring plenty of great viewing options. Popular spots include Harbor Island, Shelter Island, the Embarcadero, the Marina District, and Coronado Ferry Landing.

The event is open to the public at no cost, but you can buy special event tickets to enjoy the show from the San Diego Midway Aircraft Museum, the Maritime Museum of San Diego, or on a dinner cruise.

Baltimore

Date: July 4 at 9:30 p.m.

Celebrating the city's Black artists and the rich cultural heritage of South Baltimore, the Cherry Hill Arts & Music Waterfront Festival makes its return this July 4 at Middle Branch Park, kicking off at 1 p.m. and continuing until 10 p.m.

This free festival features performances by Monie Love, Mykal Rose, and various other musicians, culminating in a fireworks display. The fireworks will light up the sky over the Patapsco River, so be sure to bring a blanket to the shoreline lawn for a comfortable viewing experience.

Key West, Florida

Date: July 4 at 9 p.m.

While apple pie is often considered the quintessential American dessert, in Key West, it's the Key lime pie that takes center stage during the area's five-day holiday celebration, known as the annual Key Lime Festival. Activities include a pie-eating contest, a 5K race, a vendor village, cooking classes, a pool party, and a patriotic barbecue hosted by the Rotary Club.

The fireworks will launch from Edward B. Knight Pier, where festivities begin in the afternoon with live music, food, and more. You can also catch the fireworks from Smathers Beach, which is a bit farther away but likely less crowded. For the best experience, consider booking one of the fireworks cruises offered by several sailing companies.

Houston

Date: July 4 at 9 p.m.

Houston's annual "Freedom Over Texas" celebration offers much more than just fireworks. Taking place along Allen Parkway, this six-hour event features performances by nationally acclaimed musicians, culminating in a fireworks display set to music. There are also family-friendly activities to keep the kids entertained while adults enjoy the entertainment.

For those unable to attend in person, the event will be broadcast live in Houston. It takes place at Eleanor Tinsley and Sam Houston parks along the Buffalo Bayou. Admission is $10 per person, with free entry for kids aged 5 and under.

Los Angeles

Date: July 2-4 at 7:30 p.m. each night.

Los Angeles' premier event, the "July Fourth Fireworks Spectacular" at the Hollywood Bowl, will showcase Harry Connick Jr. performing with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, culminating in an iconic fireworks display. Attendees have three opportunities to experience the show, with tickets available for Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

In downtown LA, Gloria Molina Grand Park will feature its signature "4th of July Block Party" from 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., offering DJ-led dance parties, free family-friendly activities, entertainment, and more fireworks lighting up the Music Center Plaza.

Santa Claus, Indiana

Date: July 3-4 at 9 p.m.

Holiday World theme park, which features a whole area dedicated to the Fourth of July, celebrates the nation’s birthday with flair. Enjoy Independence Day daily on attractions like Eagles Flight and the Firecracker, wrapping up the day with a lively DJ dance party.

The park's "Holidays in the Sky" show combines drones and fireworks to celebrate all holidays, and for Independence Day, the event features additional fireworks and 500 drones. Guests can also receive free 3D fireworks glasses and character masks to enhance their viewing experience.

San Antonio

Date: July 5 at 9 a.m.

This year, San Antonio kicks off a brand-new all-day celebration called "Stars & Stripes Salute," set to unfold at Alamo Plaza and featuring an evening drone show above the historic site, narrated by country music star Pat Green.

The day's lineup includes performances from the U.S. Air Force Rock Band, the Children's Chorus of San Antonio, Opera San Antonio, the Youth Orchestra of San Antonio, and various other groups, alongside family-friendly activities and food trucks offering lunch, dinner, snacks, and drinks.

Philadelphia

Date: July 4 at 8 p.m.

It’s no surprise that the city where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were crafted celebrates the Fourth of July in grand style.

The city's renowned 16-day "Wawa Welcome America" festival honors Juneteenth, Independence Day, and the myriad ways in which Americans embrace liberty.

For those celebrating America's birthday in its birthplace, Benjamin Franklin Parkway is the place to be. At 8 p.m., crowds gather from Eakins Oval to Logan Circle for the festival's spectacular finale, featuring fireworks synchronized to a playlist selected by DJ Ghost.

Catalina Island, California

Date: July 4 and July 6, all day

Catalina Island's Fourth of July festivities are delightfully unique, beginning with a parade of adorned golf carts and concluding with a dazzling lighted boat parade followed by fireworks over Avalon Bay. The celebration also includes a performance by the University of Southern California Trojan Marching Band and Song Girls, as well as an evening concert in the historic Catalina Casino Ballroom. You can enjoy the show from anywhere along the waterfront or book a ride on the Cyclone powerboat for a view from the water.

In Two Harbors, the Independence Day festivities will continue on July 6 with another stunning fireworks display. Leading up to the show, families can enjoy a range of activities, including the annual Children's Festival, games, and a dinghy parade. Guests traveling from Avalon can take the Cyclone powerboat or an air-conditioned bus to participate in the fun.

Summary

Whether you choose to travel or stay local, there's a vibrant Fourth of July celebration and some classic fun waiting for you. So find the perfect viewing spot and get ready to celebrate the nation's birthday in style.