Journey to one of these six exceptional fireworks spectacles this July 4th
Get ready for a sparkling extravaganza this 4th of July! Here's a roundup of some of the best destinations in the U.S. that promise a dazzling display of fireworks and a day filled with exciting activities.
New York City, NY
The city that never sleeps is home to the nation's largest fireworks show, the Macy’s 49th Annual Fireworks Spectacular. With over 80,000 shells launched from the Brooklyn Bridge and the East River, this show is not to be missed. The pyrotechnic effects are choreographed to music, and a star-studded concert kicks off the festivities at 8 p.m. Viewing spots include rooftops, the Brooklyn Bridge, and riverside parks.
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia offers a full day of Independence Day festivities. The Celebration of Freedom ceremony, the Salute to Independence Parade, and a fireworks show with 15,000 shells are just a few of the highlights. The event culminates in the largest free concert in the country, providing a fitting end to a day of patriotic celebrations.
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco's 4th of July celebration offers a full day of live music, street performers, and food stands at Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf. The grand finale is a 25-minute fireworks display set to music over San Francisco Bay from two locations. Good viewing spots include Aquatic Park, Pier 39, and the Golden Gate Bridge hills. Bay cruises and hikes to Pioneer Park offer elevated views for a truly spectacular show.
Las Vegas, NV
Las Vegas celebrates Independence Day with multiple fireworks displays over The Strip and Fremont Street, along with parties and entertainment. Fireworks launch from about seven casinos, and the rooftop bar at Resorts World offers one of the best panoramic views.
Nashville, TN
Nashville's Music City July 4th celebration offers free access to live performances from major country and Americana artists, along with a fireworks show synchronized to a live performance by the Nashville Symphony.
Other Notable Mentions
Boston, MA is known for its Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular, a longstanding tradition with music and fireworks over the Charles River. Bristol, Rhode Island, home of the oldest Independence Day parade in the U.S., and San Diego, CA (Big Bay Boom fireworks) are also worth mentioning.
Internationally, the 4th of July is largely an American holiday, and fireworks celebrations elsewhere are not typically connected to Independence Day. However, American expatriate communities in various global cities sometimes host themed events with fireworks, but these are less prominent than major U.S. displays.
The Rebild Festival, Jutland, Denmark
While not a U.S. destination, the Rebild Festival in Jutland, Denmark, is worth a special mention. Held annually on land donated by Danish-American immigrants in 1912 to Denmark's King Christian IX, the festival celebrates American-style 4th of July traditions from July 1st to 4th.
Travel Insurance and Dining Options
Before you embark on your 4th of July travels, don't forget to check out our website for travel insurance options to provide confidence and coverage for your journey, whether domestic or international. And if you're in San Francisco, the Fog Harbor Fish House offers a perfect pre-fireworks dining experience with fresh seafood and stunning views of the Bay Bridge and the Golden Gate Bridge.
So, grab your stars and stripes, and get ready to celebrate Independence Day in style!
- For a traveler seeking a dazzling fireworks display on the 4th of July, New York City offers the Macy’s 49th Annual Fireworks Spectacular, with over 80,000 shells launched from the Brooklyn Bridge and the East River, while San Francisco has a 25-minute display set to music over San Francisco Bay from two locations.
- For those planning a 4th of July trip, it's important to consider travel insurance and dining options. One example of a dining establishment with a perfect pre-fireworks experience is the Fog Harbor Fish House in San Francisco, offering fresh seafood and stunning views of the Bay Bridge and the Golden Gate Bridge.
