The Best Places To Celebrate 4th Of July This Year
Ah, America’s Birthday: A time for grilling out, hanging with your friends on a boat and watching the fireworks from the lawn when dusk falls. It’s a magical time. Now, you may be wondering: What day is 4th of July even on this year? The 4th of July lands on a Monday in 2022. Don’t worry, this isn’t a bad thing. It just means you have an even longer weekend to celebrate! Here are the 30 best places to celebrate the 4th of July this year (2022) in America.
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. This is no way affects you or your prices as a buyer, it just rewards me as a referrer.
4Th Of July On The West Coast:
1. Klamath Falls, Oregon
What To Do In Klamath Falls:
Every year, Klamath Falls holds a 4th of July Freedom Celebration. Kicking off the party on July 1st is the Pacific Powers Cinema and Swim at the Ella Redkey Pool. You can expect plenty of swimming, games and, of course, a fantastic Disney movie: Moana. On July 2nd, the Combat Veterans Motor Cycle Association is hosting a Liberty Poker Run uniting the bikers of Southern Oregon.
On July 4th, the famous Klamath County Independence Parade will be strutting along Main Street beginning at 10:00AM and lasting an hour. You can continue your celebrations down at Klamath County Fairgrounds for activities starting at 4:00PM and, of course, the Freedom Fireworks blasting off at 10:00PM.
Where To Stay In Klamath Falls:
Top Rated: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites
Best Value: Fairfield Inn & Suites
2. WAIKIKI, HAWAII
What To Do In Waikiki:
The weekend kicks off at 8:00PM on July 1st at Hilton Hawaiian Village with a fireworks show on Waikiki Beach. On July 2nd, you can continue your celebrations at the Independence Day Concert and Fireworks at Weyand Field from 2:00-9:00PM. This year, the event is free and open to the public, which is not normally the case. You can find lots of live music, including the headliner, Chase Rice, and, of course, another fireworks show. On July 3rd, Ohana Day takes place at Turtle Bay Resort, which includes live music, local artists and yet another fireworks show.
On the 4th of July, there are plenty events to keep you busy. Hukilau Marketplace hosts entertainment, food, games and fireworks from 4PM-9PM. At 8PM, head to Kailua Beach for their famous fireworks show. Unfortunately, the biggest fireworks show from the Ala Moana Center has been cancelled for 2022, however, they are still hosting free live music and hoola performances, so be sure to check out their schedule.
If this is your first time in Hawaii, check out these 11 Exciting Things To Do In Oahu.
Where To Stay In Waikiki:
Top Rated: Hilton Hawaiian Village or Espacio The Jewel of Waikiki
Best Value: Queen Kapiolani Hotel or Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head
3. Anchorage, Alaska
What To Do In Anchorage:
Anchorage is a particularly fun place to celebrate the 4th of July because you’ll have 19 hours of daylight to make the most of it! On July 3rd, the Eagle River Lions Club will host their annual Independence Day celebration at Lions Park. Starting at 6:00PM, you can enjoy entertainment, sky divers, games and lots of food. At midnight, the fireworks display will light up the sky.
Make sure you get some sleep after the show, as your day begins early on the 4th with a pancake breakfast at 9AM. Following breakfast is the Anchorage 4th of July parade that marches downtown at 10AM. You can continue your celebrations at Delaney Park Strip for a festival with more rides, games and food lasting until 10PM. Don’t forget about the annual Glacier Pilots- Bucs Alaska Baseball League kicking off their double header at Mulcahy Stadium! The games begin at 7PM and 10PM, with fireworks shooting off at the end of the second.
Where To Stay In Anchorage:
Top Rated: Embassy Suites Anchorage
Best Value: Alex Hotel and Suites
4. San Diego, CALIFORNIA
What To Do In San Diego:
In San Diego, there are plenty of different places to catch the fireworks on July 4th. The biggest celebration of fireworks is a free show called Big Bay Boom. This starts at 9PM and also shows on Fox 5 (San Diego) beginning at 8PM if you can’t be there in person.
In Sea World, the special fireworks show kicks off at 8:50PM. Disneyland hosts their fireworks around 9PM, though most nights in Disneyland feel like the 4th of July with their celebrations, anyway. Legoland hosts a BOOM! celebration beginning at 8:30PM. Chula Vista has fireworks go off at 9PM and their gates open around 7PM. The list of opportunities to catch the sparkling lights goes ON…
If you’re looking for more activities to do in San Diego besides fireworks, check out this guide.
Where To Stay In San Diego:
Top Rated: Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton
Best Value: Howard Johnson by Wyndham San Diego Sea World
5. Huntington Beach, California
What To Do In Huntington Beach:
Huntington Beach boasts that they have the largest Independence Day Celebration west of The Mississippi. They have plenty of events going on the entire weekend. In fact, the Pier Plaza Festival runs from July 1-4 downtown, featuring over different 70 vendors. You can count on plenty of live music, food and games.
For the gym rats, the Surf City Run begins at 7AM on July 4th running along PCH. The Main Street Parade is also back this year, beginning at 10AM and putting on a show like no other. The fireworks show in Huntington Beach takes place at 9PM. You can reserve VIP and Pier seating here.
Where To Stay In Huntington Beach:
Top Rated: The Waterfront Beach Resort, A Hilton Hotel
Best Value: Sonesta Select Huntington Beach Fountain Valley
6. San Francisco, California
What To Do In San Francisco:
On July 4th, Pier 39 hosts one of the largest firework displays in all of San Francisco. Shooting off from two barges on the Bay, you can catch the show at 9:30PM.
You can also purchase tickets for plenty of live music, delicious barbecue and games the entire day. Starting at 9:30PM, there will be two synced sets of fireworks. There’s also a free live concert at the Aquatic Park finished with a dazzling display of fireworks at 9:30PM.
If you’re looking to explore the city more, check out this list of 23 Amazing Sights To See In San Francisco.
Where To Stay In San Francisco:
Top Rated: Hotel Caza Fisherman’s Wharf
Best Value: Palihotel San Francisco
4th Of July On The East Coast
7. New York City, New York
What To Do In New York City:
I’m sure this goes without saying, but there is an endless list of things to do in New York City to celebrate the 4th of July. This year, I am happy to announce that Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks are back! Beginning at 9:25PM, over 65,000 shells will fly off of five different barges on the East River.
If you’re looking for something a bit unexpected, stop by Nathan’s Famous hot dog-eating contest in Brooklyn. Otherwise, go to the Seaport District for an endless list of festivities including food, music and games in the spirit of Independence Day.
Where To Stay In New York City:
Top Rated: Park Lane New York or Park Terrace Hotel
Best Value: Arlo SoHo or Arlo NoMad
8. The HAMPTONS, NEW YORK
What To Do In The Hamptons:
I think it’s safe to say that with a reputation of being America’s Most Expensive Vacation Town, that The Hamptons will be doing the most for 4th of July.
Kicking off on July 2nd is An American Picnic with Fireworks by Gucci. It’s a great event for both kids and adults alike.
The town’s 50th Annual 4th of July Parade is from 9:30AM-11:30AM.The Westhampton Country Club is also hosting their annual fireworks show near Main Street. Every Monday at 5:45PM, Westhampton Beach Brewery also hosts a run. Seeing at the 4th of July is on a Monday this year, the run is a great place to come together and celebrate both fitness and beer before the show begins. If you’re looking for something besides fireworks and parades, check out The Zings or Split Decision live concerts between 6:30-10:30PM
Note that all roads will be closing at 7PM on July 4th only, so come early to the events if you plan to drive.
Where To Stay In The Hamptons:
Top Rated: Seven, The Hedges Inn or EHP Resort
Best Value: Bay Watch Hotel and Marina
9. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
What To Do In Philadelphia:
Home to the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence, the 4th of July is no joke in Philadelphia. Beginning with the week-long Wawa Welcome America Festival, you’ll find free admission to 20+ museums, the largest free live music concert in America and tons of other events to look out for. Head to Benjamin Franklin Parkway for the best headliners. The festival ends with a spectacular fireworks display above the Philadelphia Museum of Art at 9:30PM.
On July 4th, The Salute to America Parade begins at 11AM in Philadelphia’s Historic District, featuring historical reenactments, floats, marching bands and more. This event will also be televised on NBC 10.
Where To Stay In Philadelphia:
Top Rated: Kimpton Hotel Monaco
Best Value: Hilton Garden Inn
10. Bristol, Rhode Island
What To Do In Bristol:
Who says the smallest state couldn’t have the biggest celebrations? Rhode Island starts EARLY with their Fourth of July Ball on June 17th. Skip forward to the weekend of the main event, you can find live concerts going both Friday and Saturday from 6:30PM-9:15PM in Independence Park.
On July 3rd, a firework display will light up Bristol Harbor from 9:30PM-10PM. The 4th of July Parade begins at 10:30AM on July 4th, finishing off the spectacular weekend of events. The parade will also be broadcasted on Cox Channel 4 YurView and Cox Channel 5 Ocean State Networks.
Where To Stay In Bristol:
Top Rated: Holiday Inn Express Hotel
Best Value: Rodeway Inn
11. Washington, D.C.
What To Do In Washington D.C.:
Being the nation’s capital and all, it’s safe to assume that 4th of July in D.C. is a go big or go home kind of holiday. The National Independence Day Parade is from 11:45AM-2PM along Constitution Avenue. This is NOT to be missed. Most importantly, however, is the fireworks! The National Park Service will be hosting the display on the National Mall, launching from both sides of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool beginning at 9:09PM. There are also an endless amount of live concerts happening all weekend in Washington D.C.
Where To Stay In Washington D.C.:
Top Rated: Riggs Washington D.C.
Best Value: Club Quarters Hotel White House or The Normandy Hotel
12. MONTCLAIR, NEW JERSEY
What To Do In Montclair:
For the 68th year, Montclair is hosting their famous 4th of July parade at 11AM along with live entertainment. This is the first time since the pandemic that it is returning, so it’s bound to be spectacular! After the parade, the fun continues with a Family Picnic in Edgemont Park. At dusk, you can catch the fireworks in the Yogi Berra Stadium on Montclair State University campus. For more information, check out Montclair’s 4th of July Official Facebook Page.
Where To Stay In Montclair:
Top Rated: The Wilshire Grand Hotel
Best Value: Cambria Hotel or Courtyard Marriott
13. boston, Massachusetts
What To Do In Boston:
The Boston Harborfest takes place from July 1st-4th sharing plenty of historical reenactments, parades, live music and, of course, fireworks. The full schedule is here. The Boston Pops July 4th Spectacular starts at 7PM in the Hatch Memorial Shell featuring the esteemed orchestra and Tanglewood Festival Chorus. 1776 The Musical will also be showing from May 17, 2022 – July 23, 2022.
Where To Stay In Boston:
Top Rated: The Godfrey Hotel or Club Quarters Hotel
Best Value: Boston Park Plaza or Hampton Inn
4th Of July In The Midwest:
14. Waupaca, Wisconsin
What To Do In Waupaca:
Okay, maybe I’m a bit biased because Waupaca is my hometown, but this small city is a wonderful place to celebrate the 4th of July! Beginning at 11AM on July 4th, a 100-unit parade kicks off on Main Street. Following this celebration, the Knights of Columbus throw a chicken barbecue (while supplies last) at South Park’s upper level. At night, the fireworks begin at 9:30PM in South Park. You can find plenty of places to view these from, including the beach, the park or the most popular spot: The Graveyard.
If this is your first time visiting, be sure to check out this guide to Waupaca, Wisconsin.
Where To Stay In Waupaca:
Top Rated: Comfort Suites at Par 4 Resort
Best Value: Ramada by Wyndham
15. Door County, Wisconsin
What To Do In Door County:
Every year, Baileys Harbor puts on a fantastic display of fireworks at dusk. Though this is what draws all the crowds in, there are plenty of other activities going on throughout the weekend. Kick off the weekend on July 2nd with a live concert at Clover & Zot. On Saturday, there will be Arts & Crafts on the Town Hall Lawn from 9AM-4PM, as well another live concert at Clover and Zot.
On the 4th, the morning kicks off with the famous Baileys Harbor Fire Department Pancake Breakfast at the Fire Station from 7:30-10AM. Followed by more activities on the Town Hall Lawn and live music at The HarBar and Chives Food Trucks, you won’t have any problem finding fun to fill your day. Head here for more information.
Where To Stay In Door County:
Top Rated: Bay Breeze Resort
Best Value: AppleCreek Resort or Ridges Inn
16. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
What To Do In Lake Geneva:
The celebrations begin early in Lake Geneva. On June 26th, the Town of Delevan hosts their Independence Day Celebration from 4-11PM. You’ll find plenty of live music and mouthwatering food trucks to keep you busy, as well as a fireworks display at dusk. If you’d like to up your game, hop on the Lake Lawn Queen Fireworks Cruise on June 27th. Bring the tropics to your American celebration.
4th of July weekend kicks off on the 2nd with live music at 7:30PM, followed by Elkhorn Fireworks blasting off at dusk. If you are staying at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, you’ll be treated to a firework display every Sunday from between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Where To Stay In Lake Geneva:
Top Rated: Holiday Inn Express or The Ridge Hotel
Best Value: Geneva Wells Motel
17. St. Louis, Missouri
What To Do In St. Louis:
I think it’s safe to say there would be no better place to view the fireworks in St. Louis than under the famous Gateway Arch. The city’s annual Fourth of July Celebration called Fair Saint Louis will take place July 2-4 (Saturday to Monday) At Keiner Plaza and Ballpack Village in downtown, the first time bringing back concerts and venues since the pandemic. The fireworks will shoot off under the Gateway Arch in a big display at 9:30PM on July 4th. If this is your first time visiting St. Louis, check out this travel story for a some more locations to visit.
Where To Stay In St. Louis:
Top Rated: The Last Hotel, Drury Plaza or The Moonrise Hotel
Best Value: Pear Tree Inn or Hilton St. Louis at The Ballpark
18. Chicago, Illinois
What To Do In Chicago:
Chicago is one of those destinations that knows how to do it big, no matter what the holiday. In fact, you don’t even need to wait until the 4th of July to catch some fireworks. This summer, Navy Pier is bringing a sparkling display every Wednesday at 9PM and every Saturday at 10PM (including 4th of July weekend).
Like many of the big cities, Chicago is packed with tons of events running all weekend. To name a few, there are 4th of July Booze Cruises, parades, picnics and concerts, and even cruises just for viewing the fireworks.
Where To Stay In Chicago:
Top Rated: River Hotel or Hilton Garden Inn
Best Value: Club Quarters Hotel Wacker or Central Loop Hotel
4th Of July In The South:
19. Jekyll Island, Georgia
What To Do In Jekyll Island:
Not many people know about this hidden gem in Georgia, but, those who do, keep coming back year after year for more fun. The Annual St. Simons Island Sunshine Festival is coming to Pier Village. Here, you’ll find a boat-load of fireworks (literally), a 5K and 1-mile fun-run and more.
Historic Downtown Brunswick also celebrates each year with games, food, and a fireworks display at Mary Ross Waterfront Park. Bonus: You’ll also get tons of free watermelon courtesy of the city!
On the 4th of July, the festivities will kick off with an old-fashioned parade at 9AM in the Historic District. You can continue the party at Red, White and Bounce from 12:00PM- 6:00PM at the Jekyll Island Beach Village. This event is exactly what it sounds like: Bounce houses, water slides, music, crafts and food galore. At 9:00PM, the fireworks will take over the night sky. A few of the best places to view these from are Great Dunes Beach Park and Oceanview Beach Park.
Where To Stay In Jekyll Island:
Top Rated: Jekyll Island Club Resort
Best Value: Holiday Inn Resort
20. Navarre Beach, Florida
What To Do In Navarre Beach:
Navarre Beach is a wonderful place to spend the holiday. On July 4th, the Annual Hometown 4th of July Parade begins at 6PM, followed by the Duchess performance at 7PM and, finally, the fireworks show with live music at 9:00PM. If you’re looking for more things to do in Navarre Beach, check out their events page.
Where To Stay In Navarre Beach:
Top Rated: SpringHill Suites by Marriott
Best Value: Hampton Inn & Suites
21. NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE
What To Do In Nashville:
If there’s one place you should expect some incredible live music from, it’s Nashville. This year, the headliner Old Dominion as well as Gramps Morgan, Cassadee Pope, Levi Hummon and more will be humming along at the free Let Freedom Sing event. This year, Nashville is also hosting the largest display of fireworks in Nashville history. 2022 is a year not to be missed! More events include the Amazon Family Fun Zone and plenty of rooftop parties across the city.
Where To Stay In Nashville:
22. SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, TEXAS
What To Do In South Padre Island:
Most people know South Padre Island in Texas for their famous Spring Break celebrations each year, however, did you also know they host a killer 4th of July party? In fact, South Padre Island is literally known as the “Fireworks Capital of Texas.” One of the most famous festivals is named Fireworks Over the Bay. This year, they’ll be shooting off at 9:15PM above the Laguna Madre Bay. More events include the 4th of July Beach Parade (beginning at 10:00AM), the Freedom Bash and, of course, the Salute to Freedom.
Where To Stay In South Padre Island:
Top Rated: El Delfin Lodge or Holiday Inn Express
Best Value: Super 8 by Wyndham or Best Western Beachside Inn
23. DALLAS, TEXAS
What To Do In Dallas:
Like most big cities, Dallas is nowhere near short of things to do for 4th of July. The weekend begins on July 2nd with Liberty on the Lake. You’ll start in the morning with the Liberty 5K/10K/1M race at Stewart Creek Park, followed up by the Independence Day Parade at 11:30AM and a concert with food, rides and fireworks beginning at 6PM at The Colony Five Star Complex.
On July 3rd, Light Up Arlington hosts live music and activities from 4PM-10:30PM, along with a free fireworks display at 9:50PM. On Monday, the oldest, as well as one of the biggest 4th of July parades in all of Texas takes places. For more events happening all weekend, check out this guide.
Where To Stay In Dallas:
Top Rated: Hyatt Regency Dallas or Warwick Melrose Hotel
Best Value: MCM Elegante Hotel
24. MYRTLE BEACH, SOUTH CAROLINA
What To Do In Myrtle Beach:
Myrtle Beach has a long weekend of festivities planned for you, beginning with the fireworks at Broadway at the Beach on Friday, July 1 at 10:00PM. If you’re a baseball fan, you can also watch the fireworks after the Pelicans game from July 1-3rd. On July 4th, there are at least 6 different places hosting a fireworks show as well.
If you’re into culture, there is a Music & Wine Fest running from 10AM-5PM on July 2nd. Oh, and the parades don’t just go by foot here. Watch the Golf Cart Parade at 10AM on the 4th or the Boat Parade at 11AM on the 4th.
Where To Stay In Myrtle Beach:
Top Rated: Marina Inn at Grande Dunes, Avista Resort, or Hampton Inn & Suites
Best Value: Grand Shores or Bay View Resort
25. charleston, South carolina
What To Do In Charleston:
The weekend begins on July 2nd with a concert and fireworks at the Joe. This is a free event, but reservations are required. On the 4th of July the Annual Independence Day Celebration takes place at the Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum. You can expect plenty of food trucks, live music, and, of course, a fireworks show. You can also catch some fireworks on Monday night at Folly Beach or Mount Pleasant Pier.
Where To Stay In Charleston:
Top Rated: Market Pavilion Hotel
Best Value: Hampton Inn Charleston-Daniel Island or Best Western Airport
26. Orlando, Florida
What To Do In Orlando:
I think it’s pretty obvious that Disney World, Sea World, Legoland and all those other giant entertainment hotspots are going to go big this year. Count on that. If you’re into the less-obvious celebrations, there are still some great places to check out. Promenade at Sunset Walk is hosting a 4-day event (July 1-4th) with music, entertainment, a Car Show, farmers market and more.
If you’re looking to mix up the scenery, Red Hot & Boom takes place on July 3rd from 4-11PM. They’ve got live music, food and a fireworks show-all you need to bring is your friends!
Fireworks at the Fountain featuring games, live music and plenty of food and drinks is happening at Lake Eola Park from 5-10PM on the 4th. There will also be a fireworks show at 9:15PM.
Where To Stay In Orlando:
Top Rated: Celebration Suites or Caribe Royale
Best Value: Clarion Inn & Suites or Quality Inn & Suites
27. Scottsdale, Arizona
What To Do In Scottsdale:
Scottsdale is hosting their 9th Annual 4th of July Celebration this year and you can plan on it being a great one. From 5PM-9PM on July 4th, you can find loads of music, games (I’m talking bull riding!) and, of course, the largest display of fireworks in Scottsdale at the end of the night.
If you’re in town for the weekend, you can also head to the Red, White & Choo Choo event for unlimited train and carousel rides, live music and even a pie-eating contest! And yes, the mechanical bull and fireworks will also be partaking in the evening.
Where To Stay In Scottsdale:
Top Rated: Hotel Valley Ho or Bespoke Inn
Best Value: The Scottsdale Plaza Resort & Villas or Hyatt Place
4th Of July Up North:
28. Choteau, Montana
What To Do In Choteau:
Who said Montana didn’t know how to party?! The weekend begins at 10AM on July 2nd with the Choteau Fire Department Keg Hockey. Need I say more? Okay, fine. On July 3rd, the Choteau Soroptimist Duck Race begins at 1:00PM followed by the Chamber Brewfest at 4PM and finally, the famous rodeo.
On July 4th, the Let Freedom Run Fun Run begins at 7:45AM followed by the big parade at 10AM. For lunch, head to the Pitchfork Fondue Steak Fry and then back to the rodeo for the Main Event #2 at 2PM. The firework display begins after sunset and is not to be missed. For more details on the events, click here.
Where To Stay In Choteau:
Top Rated: Pet-Friendly Choteau Townhouse
Best Value: Cozy Choteau Home With Firepit
29. Cody, Wyoming
What To Do In Cody:
Cody is hosting a parade three days in a row this year for the 103rd time. This is one of their biggest events, kicking off with the kiddies parade at 10AM on July 2nd. On July 3rd and 4th, the Stampede Parade takes place with the theme of 150 Years of Wild & Wonder. There are also Stampede Rodeos July 1-3rd at 8PM and July 4th at 5PM. You can purchase rodeo tickets here. The fireworks show above the river begins at dusk on July 4th.
Where To Stay In Cody:
Top Rated: Wilderness Retreat or The Cody
Best Value: Super 8 or Cody Legacy Inn & Suites
30. Jackson hole, Wyoming
What To Do In Jackson Hole:
Last, but certainly not least, is Jackson Hole in Wyoming. On Sunday, July 3rd, the Grand Teton Music Festival begins lasting EIGHT WEEKS. However, they will be hosting a special Patriotic Pops performance on July 4th from 7-9PM. Don’t worry, they’ll have a fireworks show afterward, too, so you won’t miss out on anything! Tickets are available for purchase here.
The 4th of July events kick off at 8AM on Monday morning with an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast on Jackson’s Town Square. Shortly after is the 4th of July Parade, beginning at 10AM filled with plenty of surprises. The Jackson Hole Rodeo hosts a 4th of July special event, starting at 8PM and finishing just before the fireworks. This is a MUST if you’re in Cody for the 4th of July. There are 3 firework displays on the night of the 4th (at the Grand Teton Music Festival, Snow King Resort, and Teton Village). All three events begin at 10PM and you can see them from virtually anywhere in the town.
Where To Stay In Jackson Hole:
Top Rated: Bentwood Inn or The White Buffalo Club
Best Value: Elk Country Inn or Wyoming Inn
If you haven’t figured out your plans yet, what are you waiting for? The Fourth of July is ready for you, no matter which city you end up with. Have a safe and wonderful holiday!
If you’ve enjoyed reading this post, please consider donating. I love making free content like this that is accessible to everyone and truly appreciate your support in helping me do so!
