It’s time to break out the sparklers and dig up your American-flag shorts! Nothing says American pride quite like a backyard Independence Day BBQ, but there are other exciting ways to celebrate the weekend. If you’re looking for a new holiday tradition, there are lots of festivals and fireworks shows around the country that you and your friends can enjoy. Check out these awesome celebrations for a Fourth of July to remember!
1. Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks – New York City, NY
When: July 4, 8 p.m.
Cost: Free
There’s nothing better than a patriotic celebration in the Big Apple! New York City’s famous celebration will be hosted by Nick Cannon this year. Enjoy colorful fireworks right over the Brooklyn Bridge as well as performances by Ariana Grande, Miranda Lambert and Hunter Hayes. Can’t get to New York? No problem—the show will be broadcast live on NBC at 8 p.m. EST. Find out more about the show here.
2. Go 4th on the River – New Orleans, LA
When: July 3-6; fireworks July 4 at 9 p.m.
Cost: Free admission for fireworks show
This weekend-long extravaganza takes place on the New Orleans Riverfront. With the one-of-a-kind boutiques and fantastic restaurants, you can enjoy a holiday weekend right on the river. You can even jump on the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen riverboat for a fancy dinner cruise to get an awesome view of the Dueling Barges Fireworks Show on the Mississippi River. Tickets for the dinner cruise are $119 for adults, but you can watch the fireworks show on the riverfront for free. Check out the website for more details.
3. Music City’s July 4th: Let Freedom Sing – Nashville, TN
When: July 4, 12-10:15 p.m.
Cost: Free
Spend your Fourth of July in the famous Music City of Nashville. There will be live music, family fun (such as waterslides and climbing walls) and an outstanding fireworks display. The festivities officially begin at noon, with live music starting at 6:30 p.m. The celebration ends with a spectacular fireworks show. Find out more at the official event website.
4. Cedar Point’s Fantastic Fireworks – Sandusky, OH
When: July 4-5; fireworks shows at 10 p.m. each day
Cost: $59.99 per person; $39.99 per person if you buy at least four tickets
For an adventurous holiday weekend, you can head over to Ohio’s favorite theme park, Cedar Point! The celebration will include amazing fireworks shows, skydiving performances and cornhole. Find out more on the Cedar Point events page.
5. Big Bay Boom Independence Day Spectacular – San Diego, CA
When: July 4, 9 p.m.
Cost: Free
Each year, thousands of people gather for this legendary fireworks show. You can pack a picnic with patriotic-themed recipes and find a spot around San Diego’s Big Bay to watch the fireworks. Find out where the best seats are, and make sure to get there early!
6. Boston Harborfest – Boston, MA
When: July 2-6
Cost: Varies
Harborfest is perfect if you’re looking for an Independence Day throwback. This patriotic event offers historical tours, reenactments, dinner cruises and live concerts. You’re sure to have a great time enjoying the over 200 different activities, and you’ll get the chance to learn about American history as well! You can find a full list of each day’s events on the Harborfest website.
7. Philly 4th of July Jam & Fireworks – Philadelphia, PA
When: July 4, 7-11 p.m.
Cost: Free
What better place to celebrate America’s birthday than in Philadelphia? Experience the “Largest Free Concert in America” with performances by Ed Sheeran, Jennifer Hudson and The Roots. After the concert, grab a spot in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art for an amazing fireworks display. Find out more about the celebration schedule here and follow @July4thPhilly on Twitter for the latest updates.
No matter which event you go to this year, you’re sure to have an awesome Fourth of July. Show off your USA pride and watch some amazing fireworks!