Of course, fireworks will always be part of the package. People never seem to get tired of seeing the lights and explosives. Each year, statistics say that an estimated 24.5 million fireworks and 14,000 displays for the celebration all over the world.

Philadelphia was the first to celebrate on the 4th of July Independence Day declaration with fireworks, which many believe started the now popular way to commemorate in American history.

Here are different states that celebrate the 4th of July in their unique ways:

Different Places, Different Celebrations

Boston, Massachusetts holds the most extensive celebration because of their history and heritage during the war. The ceremony is known as ‘Boston Harborfest,’ and almost 3 million visitors join in on the festivities that start as early as July 1. Admission is free, but you need tickets for some attractions such as the Boston Tea Party ships and museums, historic pub crawl, Boston Harbor Cruises, and Paul Revere’s North End Walking Tour. Fireworks display usually happens at the Boston Inner Harbor2nd of July, 8:30 pm.

Coney Island, Brooklyn is known worldwide for its international hotdog eating contest at the boardwalk. Winners are awarded a whopping $40,000 once they beat the reigning champ of Coney Island. You may also visit other places such as the New York Aquarium, Luna Park, and Nathan’s Famous. The beautiful thing about Brooklyn is the fun, exhilarating vibe it exudes. Fireworks activate at precisely 9:30 pm at Steeplechase Pier, near the beach.

Bristol, Rhode Island has the most extended celebration starting from June 14 until July 4. The ceremony for the Military, Civic, and Firemen’s Parade is 2.5 meters long! But don’t let the long walk bore you, because there are other activities available as well, like concerts held at Independence Park, a golf tournament, the orange derby, the Independence Rhode Race, the Drum Corps Show, and so much more. Fireworks display will happen on July 3, in Bristol Harbor.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, offers the most fun-filled activities for your 4th of July celebration. You may start by running for the 5k or 8k runs at 7:30 am and continue to take part in the Garden City Golf Cart Parade at 10 am. If you’re a fan of boat sailing, then head on over to Murrell’s Inlet for the annual Boat Parade which showcases different designs and art in a bid to win the ‘best-decorated prize’ at around 1 pm. Fireworks start at 6 pm, and it doesn’t end there. The Myrtle Beach Pelicans will give you a treat by giving you a post-firework game along with beer.  Stepping up the celebration on July 4th is part of the annual Summerfest (from June 1 until September 2).

New York City, who doesn’t know about this place? Thanks to Macy’s, a fantastic pyrotechnic performance is given in line with patriotic music in Midtown, Manhattan. Every year, Macy’s make it a point to outdo last year’s program. The fireworks display is the only program everyone is waiting for and anticipating. It starts at 9:25 pm, thanks to the New York City Police Department and the Fire Department. But, if you’re planning on spending the whole day in New York, then you should probably visit the city’s war locations to commemorate the holiday’s purpose. You may visit St. Paul’s Chapel, Fraunces Tavern, Fort Tryon Park, and Fort Wadsworth.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania takes pride in being the exact place where Independence was signed and declared. To further give importance to the most celebrated holiday, Philadelphia holds a six-day long festivity. Everything is free– from museums, concerts, parties, parades, and ceremonies. Starting from June 29th, museums welcome all visitors, and on the 1st and 2nd of July, block parties and family-friendly movies take place, as well as top performances, and of course, fireworks.

New Orleans, Louisiana boasts of the NOLA fireworks display which is along Woldenberg Park, the Moonwalk, or at Algiers. You may also enjoy the cruises offered by boats from the Creole Queen and Steamboat Natchez. At precisely 6 pm, General Roy S. Kelly fireboat gives out a spectacular red, white, and blue fountain display, with fireworks at 9 pm.

Chicago, Illinois is a place for celebration and fireworks even in mid daylight, but also make sure to not miss the display later at 9:30 pm, at the building’s rooftop. From June 30 to July 3, an event called Eyes To The Skies consists of nonstop music, carnivals, hot air balloons, as well as local barbeques and performances from local bands. Then, on July 4, enjoy the free concert at Pritzker Pavilion from 6:30 to 8:30 pm.

Wilmington, North Carolina will give you your money’s worth with North Carolina Symphony’s performance of your patriotic music favorites. Ticket prices range from $20 to $80, all in. Meaning, the fireworks display is included. On July 3rd, there will be music and fireworks at Carolina Beach Boardwalk, and on July 4th itself, Downtown Wilmington Waterfront Park and Pier 33 Entertainment Venue are the places to be for a magnificent firework display (from 6 pm to 10 pm). By the way, this celebration extends until July 7th.

San Diego, California population consists of veterans that served the war (Navy, Airforce, Army, National Guard, Marine Corps) that’s why patriotism is evident in all areas during this holiday. Expect tickets to be sold out, especially at the Big Bay Boom, as well as the U.S.S. Midway flight deck where fireworks happen at around 9 pm. But there’s no need to fret if tickets are sold out, you may watch at the Shelter Island, Harbor Island, North Embarcadero and Marina District, Seaport Village, and Coronado Ferry Landing.

Minneapolis, Minnesota, is the place to be for the whole family. At 6 pm, there’s live music and fun-filled activities that extend until the fireworks display scheduled at 10 pm. You can also enjoy a picnic at Lake Calhoun, or enjoy live music and face painting activities at Father Hennepin Bluffs Park. In addition to that, you may also view the fireworks display at Stone Arch Bridge, Gold Medal Park, and over the rooftops in Twin Cities.

Washington, D.C. is the United States capital, so it’s best to celebrate Independence Day in this location. On June 29th to the 30th, enjoy the festivities in the National Mall with unlimited food, concerts, and activities. The United States Army Old Guard and Drum Corps will also perform in line with the Independence Day declaration. On the 4th of July, ceremonies will start at 11:45 am with the expected participation of the fife and drum corps, military service people, etc. daytime fireworks at 1 pm as well as programs will also push through, to have that authentic, realistic Independence Day feeling.

Nashville, Tennessee will, of course, make music the most significant performance during this holiday by giving a free admissions concert. Not only do the people of Nashville take music seriously, but they also provide their 100% to the fireworks display. A view from Nissan Stadium and Cumberland Park will give you the exhilarating experience of seeing the 35,000 pieces of explosives that will surely give justice to the celebration. For family activities, head over to the Family Fun Zone.

Williamsburg, Virginia will take you back in time all thanks to their costumes and programs. Reenactment of the Declaration of Independence and a salute takes place as well. You may also spend some family time at the Shields Tavern Breakfast Celebration with a four-course meal, breakfast, and games then go straight to the Palace Green for a fireworks display. 

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, unlike other states, celebrates Independence Day at midnight. A parade happens at precisely, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any activities to look out for before the show. At 8:30 pm, there is a free concert by the 100th Army Band, which eventually leads to the fireworks display scheduled at 10 pm. If you wish to have midday activities, go for a ride on the Gatlinburg Sky Lift which is sure to give you breathtaking views.


Charleston, South Carolina celebrates until the 7th of July, with fireworks at U.S.S. Yorktown in Charleston Harbor. Opening acts often start at 6 pm, and expect to see Brett Young perform as well. Known as “low country’s largest Fourth Of July fireworks show,” make sure to stay at Riverfront Park from 3 pm to 9:45 pm to enjoy the view.