Many people like celebrating our country’s Independence Day at home with a BBQ surrounded by friends and family. Some would rather enjoy a lake day out on a boat or have some fun splashing around at a waterpark. However you and your family enjoy spending your day on July 4th, the general consensus is that everyone loves ending the day’s celebrations with an awe-inspiring fireworks show.
Here on Hilton Head Island, we love fireworks! In fact, every Tuesday during the summer, we like to watch a dazzling display at Shelter Cove Harbor & Marina. This July 4th, we have a few extra shows and many fun events during the day to look out for, but if you’re looking for a reason to explore somewhere new this year or next, we’ve created a list of some of the best firework displays in the United States from coast to coast.
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston Pops Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular
Every year on the Fourth of July, the historic city of Boston, Massachusetts, hosts an epic fireworks display set to live music from a full symphony orchestra, the Boston Pops. With the concert at the Hatch Memorial Shell’s stage, celebrities and musical guests are known to make appearances in addition to the celebrated Boston Pops Orchestra. Always free and open to the public, thousands in attendance line both the Boston and Cambridge sides of the river to see the stunning display. If you aren’t able to make it to Boston for this year’s 51st Fireworks Spectacular, the entire show will be broadcast on The CW Network nationally from 9 to 10pm ET/PT.
New York City, New York
Macy’s 49th Annual 4th of July Fireworks Show
This year’s spectacular celebration lights up the sky with over 80,000 shells, 30 vibrant colors, and 11 brand-new, never-before-seen effects — all launched from multiple barges along the East River. Known as the “Official Fireworks Show of America,” this dazzling display is free and open to the public, with incredible views from city parks, waterfronts, and rooftops throughout New York.
Hosted by Ariana DeBose, the show features live performances by Trisha Yearwood, Lenny Kravitz, the Jonas Brothers, and more — all culminating in a patriotic celebration like no other. Catch the magic live or tune in to the NBC broadcast for a front-row seat to one of the nation’s most iconic Independence Day traditions.
Washington D.C.
Fourth of July Celebration
There’s no better place to honor America’s birthday than in Washington, D.C., where history, heritage, and fireworks come together in spectacular fashion. Each year, the National Park Service presents one of the most awe-inspiring fireworks displays in the country, with the monuments and memorials of the National Mall serving as a stunning backdrop.
Weather permitting, the show kicks off at 9:09 p.m. While the National Mall remains a favorite viewing spot, the beauty of D.C.’s display is that you can enjoy it from just about anywhere in the city. Popular locations include the Lincoln Memorial, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, and even along the Mount Vernon Trail.
Nashville, Tennessee
Let Freedom Sing! Music City July 4th Celebration
In true Nashville style, Independence Day kicks off early with a full day of live music across the city. The festivities begin with performances at the Southwest Airlines Stage from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., followed by an evening lineup at the Jack Daniel’s Broadway Stage from 4 p.m. to 9:20 p.m.. Headliner Dierks Bentley takes center stage before the grand finale — a breathtaking fireworks show set to a live score performed by the Nashville Symphony at Ascend Amphitheater.
The fireworks display is massive, spanning four launch locations and using 40,000 pounds of explosives connected by over 200 miles of wire. This year’s spectacle also includes a dazzling drone show, adding high-tech choreography to the sky. Known for its scale and sound, Nashville’s finale ranks among the most powerful in the country, making it an event you’ll want to add to your bucket list!
San Diego, California
Big Bay Boom
Head to the West Coast to see California’s largest fireworks show over the San Diego Bay. Fireworks are launched from four barges throughout the bay, and the show is scheduled to start at 9pm. Viewers can see this spectacular display from many different locations, such as Shelter Island, Harbor Island, North Embarcadero, the Marina District, Coronado Ferry Landing, and, of course, on the water in personal watercraft.
The Big Bay Boom is one of San Diego’s popular attractions for visitors, and makes it easy for attendees to figure out where they should go to watch and, of course, where to park before the show. Visit the event’s website for more recommendations of where to stay, eat, and celebrate Independence Day with other fun, local events.
