If you're someone who thinks the 4th of July isn't complete without a sky full of booming color and patriotic tunes in the background, you're in good company! Across the country, cities go all out to deliver spectacular fireworks displays. Some of them are so big and bold, they attract crowds in the hundreds of thousands! If you want to be where the best show is, check out our list of the top fireworks displays in the country that are worth the trip (or the livestream)!
Know Before You Go to Watch Fireworks Like a Pro:
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Arrive early to claim your spot, especially at free venues.
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Bring a blanket or low-back chair for comfort.
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Pack snacks and water and bug spray, especially if you’re bringing kids - a TOBIQ 30L bag would be great for this!
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Use public transportation or rideshare since parking is often a nightmare.
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Check local rules about what you can bring (some venues ban coolers, pets, or alcohol).
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Watch the weather, especially out West where fire conditions can cancel shows.
1. Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks - New York City, NY
This is the largest Independence Day fireworks show in the country and probably the most iconic. Over 80,000 shells are launched from barges in the East River, lighting up the Manhattan skyline in a 25-minute show synchronized to patriotic music. The city even gives away 100,000 free tickets for prime viewing in Brooklyn and along the waterfront. Best view: Brooklyn Bridge Park of Pier 17.
2. Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular - Boston, MA
Boston brings the revolution-era vibes in full force with this legendary celebration on the Charles River Esplanade. The Boston Pops orchestra performs live, culminating in a rousing 1812 Overture, complete with real cannons! The show draws about half a million people and feels like a scene straight out of a history book. Best view: Hatch Shell on the Boston side, or the Cambridge riverbank.
3. Navy Pier Fireworks - Chicago, IL
Chicago’s Navy Pier is a fireworks fan favorite. While they shoot off fireworks all summer, the 4th of July display is the biggest of them all! Fireworks burst above Lake Michigan, synchronized to music, with the skyline as a stunning backdrop. Best view: from a boat cruise or along the pier itself.
4. Big Bay Boom - San Diego, CA
This West Coast spectacle takes place over the San Diego Bay, using four barges to light up the water. Half a million people gather along the waterfront for one of the most powerful fireworks displays in the nation. The reflections off the bay make it twice as beautiful. Best view: Shelter Island, Harbor Island, or a kayak if you're feeling adventurous!
5. National Mall Fireworks - Washington, D.C.
What’s more American than watching fireworks explode behind the Washington Monument? This celebration includes a live concert on the West Lawn of the Capitol and ends with a show that spans the monuments and reflects off the reflecting pool. The atmosphere is as patriotic as it gets! Best view: Lincoln Memorial steps or the rooftop of a nearby hotel if you're lucky.
6. Kaboom Town - Addison, TX
This suburb of Dallas hosts one of the country’s most surprisingly massive shows. With an epic fireworks display set to music, an airshow before sunset, and parties all over town, it's a true Texas-sized celebration. The fact that it takes place on July 3rd gives you room to catch a second show somewhere else. Best view: Addison Circle Park or nearby restaurants with rooftop seating.
7. Fair St. Louis - St. Louis, MO
Held under the towering Gateway Arch, this event includes air shows, concerts, and an enormous fireworks display over the Mississippi River. This city knows how to celebrate the holiday with flair and family-friendly energy. Best view: The Arch grounds or across the river in East St. Louis.
8. Let Freedom Sing! - Nashville, TN
Music City does the 4th its own way: by combining country music concerts, the Nashville Symphony, and a fireworks display so well-coordinated with the live music that you’ll feel like you're watching a movie finale. It’s considered one of the biggest shows in the South. Best view: Downtown near Broadway or Riverfront Park.
9. Wawa Welcome America - Philadelphia, PA
You can’t have a fireworks list without including the city where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Philadelphia celebrates for nearly two weeks, ending with a huge concert and fireworks show along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Bonus points for free museum days and family programming. Best view: near the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
10. Stadium of Fire - Provo, UT
Held at Brigham Young University, this stadium show combines fireworks with headline music acts and patriotic tributes. It bills itself as the largest stadium fireworks show in the U.S. - and you won’t argue after seeing the finale! Best view: inside the stadium or on local hills overlooking the area.
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Happy 4th of July, TOBIQ friends, and let freedom ring!