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Destinations To Celebrate 4th Of July In The USA In 2024

A family enjoying fireworks, a top destination to celebrate 4th of July in 2024.

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Are you ready to have a blast on the 4th of July in 2024? It’s time to light up the grill, watch the night sky, and celebrate America’s birthday in style! From big-city bashes to small-town shindigs, there are so many amazing places across the country to join in on the festivities.

So put on your red, white, and blue, and get ready for some serious fun. Here are the best destinations for an unforgettable Independence Day celebration.

1. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota – Best for a Fireworks-Free Historical Experience

Mount Rushmore, a historic and patriotic 4th of July spot for 2024.

If you’re looking for a travel destination that has a unique 4th of July celebration without the loud booms and bright flashes of fireworks, head to Mount Rushmore National Memorial in South Dakota. Here, you can enjoy a more laid-back, educational experience that’s perfect for history buffs.

EventDetails
Presidential Re-enactments-Meet re-enactors portraying George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt

-Attend a staged press conference with the “presidents” on July 3 in the Carvers’ Marketplace

-Interact with the re-enactors and get their autographs on July 3 and 4
Sculpture Lighting Ceremonies-Watch the traditional lighting of the Mount Rushmore sculpture on July 3 and 4 at 9pm

-Enjoy music and performances at the park’s amphitheater during the ceremonies

While there’s no cost to enter the park, keep in mind that you’ll need to pay for parking. It’s a small price to pay for such a cool, one-of-a-kind 4th of July experience!

2. New York City, New York – Best for a Dazzling Array of Celebrations

NYC skyline with fireworks, an iconic place to celebrate July 4th, 2024.

The Big Apple really knows how to throw a party, and the 4th of July is no exception. With events happening all across the city’s five boroughs, there’s something for everyone in NYC.

EventDetails
Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest-Watch competitive eaters chow down on hot dogs at this iconic Coney Island event

-Stick around for a Brooklyn Cyclones baseball game and evening fireworks show
Travis 4th of July Parade-Check out this historic parade in the small Staten Island town of Travis, a tradition since 1911
Macy’s 4th of July Spectacular-Get ready for one of the country’s biggest fireworks displays, with over 65,000 shells launching from five barges on the Hudson River starting around 9:30pm

For prime viewing spots for the Macy’s fireworks, head to:

  • First Avenue at East 20th, 34th, or 42nd Streets in Manhattan
  • Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City
  • Marsha P. Johnson State Park, Newtown Barge Park, or Transmitter Park in Brooklyn

3. Huntington Beach, California – Best for a Beachy Celebration

Huntington Beach, CA, a popular beach destination for 4th of July 2024.

Surf City USA sure knows how to celebrate the 4th of July! Huntington Beach, a laid-back suburb of Los Angeles, hosts the largest Independence Day celebration west of the Mississippi. Over 500,000 people flock to this sunny spot for four days of fun in the sun.

EventDetails
4th of July 5K Run-Join the all-American beach run from city to surf

-Kids can participate in their own fun run
Main Street Parade-Watch a parade filled with colorful floats cruise down historic Main Street
Pier Plaza Festival-Enjoy live entertainment, rides, and yummy food from various vendors

-Stick around for the fireworks show over Huntington Beach Pier at 9pm on July 4th

Want a guaranteed spot to watch the fireworks? Snag an early bird ticket in advance for $42 to secure your place.

4. Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia – Best for a Trip Back in Time

Colonial Williamsburg, VA, a historic town for a patriotic 4th of July 2024.

For a 4th of July celebration that truly brings American history to life, head to Colonial Williamsburg. This authentic 18th-century town is filled with re-enactors who transport you back to the nation’s earliest days.

EventDetails
Reading of the Declaration of Independence-Listen to Thomas Jefferson himself read the Declaration of Independence from the Capitol building’s West Balcony
Freedom’s Paradox Tour-Explore the contradiction of American freedom and slavery on this thought-provoking guided tour
Lights of Freedom-Enjoy a concert at Palace Green featuring marching music, patriotic sing-alongs, and selections from Handel’s Music for the Royal Fireworks

-Stick around for the fireworks display at 9:30pm, best viewed from Palace Green and Market Square

While admission to Colonial Williamsburg is free on the 4th, be sure to book your ticket in advance to secure your spot.

5. Jackson Hole, Wyoming – Best for Wild West Americana

A festive 4th of July parade rolls through a national park town, perfect for 2024 celebrations.

Yeehaw! If you’re looking for a rootin’-tootin’ good time this 4th of July, mosey on over to Jackson Hole. This scenic spot in the heart of the Wild West serves up a heapin’ helpin’ of Americana.

EventDetails
Town Square Pancake Breakfast-Fill up on flapjacks at this community breakfast in the heart of Jackson Hole
4th of July Parade-Watch a wild western parade complete with horses, clowns, and shootout re-enactments
Jackson Hole Rodeo-Get your cowboy fix at an old-school rodeo at the Teton County Fairgrounds

While the fireworks displays at Teton Village and Snow King Mountain on July 3 and 4 are definitely worth checking out, nothing beats watching the sun set behind the majestic Grand Tetons. It’s like nature’s very own light show!

6. Seward, Alaska – Best for Extreme Sports Enthusiasts

Celebrate Independence Day 2024 at a small-town parade with marchers proudly waving US flags.

In the land of the midnight sun, the 4th of July celebrations in Seward are a little different. Fireworks don’t go off until 12:01am, and they’re just the cherry on top of an action-packed day.

EventDetails
Mount Marathon Race-Founded in 1915

-Considered the most challenging 5K in the world

-Racers scramble up and down a 3,022-foot peak above Resurrection Bay

-Terrain includes steep inclines, loose shale, and slippery waterfalls
Midnight Fireworks-Fireworks display starts at 12:01am due to the midnight sun
Population Boom-Seward’s population swells from 3,000 to 30,000 on race day

-Spectators come from far and wide to witness the thrilling event

The Mount Marathon Race is not for the faint of heart, but those who compete earn eternal bragging rights. It’s an Independence Day experience you won’t find anywhere else!

7. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Best for a Month-Long Celebration

Cheerful girls in red, white and blue outfits march in a July 4th parade, an ideal 2024 event.

As the birthplace of America, it’s no surprise that Philadelphia goes all out for the 4th of July. In fact, the City of Brotherly Love starts the celebrations on June 19th and keeps the party going all month long!

EventDetails
Free Museum Days-Enjoy free admission to select museums starting June 19th
Outdoor Films and Performances-Catch free outdoor movie screenings and live performances throughout the month
Carpenters’ Hall 250th Birthday-Celebrate the 250th anniversary of the First Continental Congress at Carpenters’ Hall on July 2nd
Independence Day Parade-Watch the “Salute to Independence” parade march through the streets, starting at 11am on July 4th
Parkway Concert-Jam out to live music from stars like Ne-Yo and Kesha at this free outdoor concert on the Parkway, followed by a dazzling fireworks display on July 4th

8. Aptos, California – Best for Small-Town Charm

Kids joyfully march with arms raised under a 4th of July banner, ready for the 2024 festivities.

Looking for a quirky, small-town 4th of July celebration? Check out Aptos, a sleepy spot on the Monterey Bay that’s home to the world’s shortest parade.

EventDetails
World’s Shortest Parade-Parade route is only 0.6 miles long

-Kicks off at 10am at the intersection of Soquel Drive and State Park Drive

-Attracts thousands of spectators each year
Aptos Village Park Celebration-After the parade, head to Aptos Village Park for an afternoon of lounging and celebrating with the locals

Don’t let the short parade route fool you – this little parade packs a big punch! It’s a kitschy, classic slice of small-town America that’s sure to put a smile on your face.

9. Nashville, Tennessee – Best for a Music-Filled 4th

Celebrate 4th of July 2024 with dazzling fireworks lighting up the Nashville skyline at night.

It’s no surprise that Music City, USA, knows how to throw a toe-tappin’ 4th of July shindig. Nashville has the “Let Freedom Sing!” event, which is jam-packed with live performances from big-name country stars and beyond.

EventDetails
Main Stage Concerts-Catch headliner Chris Young, along with performances by YOLA, Girl Named Tom, and American gospel singer Blessing Offor, with more acts to be announced
Nashville Symphony-Listen to the Grammy-winning Nashville Symphony perform a patriotic medley as fireworks light up the sky
Food Trucks-Chow down on delicious eats from local food trucks like Moosic City ice cream, Tennessee Cobbler Co., and Kona Ice

With one of the largest fireworks shows in the country, perfectly synchronized to live music, Nashville’s 4th of July celebration is a feast for the senses.

10. Addison, Texas – Best for an Over-the-Top Fireworks Display

Fireworks light up the sky, an ideal spot to celebrate July 4th in 2024.

Deep in the heart of Texas, the little town of Addison knows how to put on a big 4th of July show. Their annual “Kaboom Town!” event on July 3rd features a jaw-dropping half-hour fireworks extravaganza that draws over 500,000 spectators.

Date-July 3, 2024
Time-Evening (exact time TBA)
Location-Addison Circle Park
Fireworks Display-30-minute spectacular featuring 3,500 pounds of fireworks

-Visible from almost anywhere in town
Watch Parties-Local restaurants and hotels host special viewing events for out-of-towners

-Many offer food and drink specials, live music, and prime fireworks viewing spots

Before the main event, don’t miss the thrilling airshow featuring daring aerobatic performances and patriotic flyovers. It’s a heart-pounding prelude to the pyrotechnic display that follows.

Insider Tip: Arrive early to stake out your spot, and be sure to bring lawn chairs or blankets for comfortable viewing. With so many people in attendance, parking can be a challenge, so consider using a rideshare service or the special event shuttle from the Addison Transit Center.

11. Boston, Massachusetts – Best for a Revolutionary Experience

Colonial reenactors march with drums, lively 4th of July parade at a historic destination.

Boston is a history buff’s dream on the 4th of July. With famous Revolutionary War sites like Bunker Hill and Paul Revere’s grave, the city has a direct line to America’s fight for independence.

DateEventDetails
June 30Downtown Crossing Celebration-Arts and crafts market

-Meet re-enactors from the USS Constitution

-Live music from the 215th Army Band
July 1Harborfest Fireworks-Free performances throughout the day

-Fireworks show over the harbor at 9pm
July 4Independence Day Parade-Parade from City Hall Plaza to the Old State House

-Reading of the Declaration of Independence
July 4Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular-Concert at the Hatch Memorial Shell on the Charles River Esplanade

-Fireworks display set to live music, including the famous 1812 Overture with real cannons

Don’t miss the chance to walk the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile route that takes you to 16 historically significant sites, including the Paul Revere House, Old North Church, and the USS Constitution (aka “Old Ironsides”).

Insider Tip: For the best view of the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular, head to the DCR Hatch Memorial Shell early to secure a spot on the lawn. You can also watch from the banks of the Charles River on either the Boston or Cambridge side.

12. Fire Island Pines, New York – Best for a Pride-Filled Party

LGBTQIA+ members kick up heels on festive float, colorful 4th of July celebration.

If you’re looking for a 4th of July celebration with a bit more pizzazz, set your sights on Fire Island. This LGBTQI+ haven off the coast of Long Island hosts an annual “Invasion of the Pines” event that’s equal parts Independence Day and Pride.

Date-July 4, 2024
Location-Fire Island Pines, NY
Invasion of the Pines-Hundreds of drag queens and kings “invade” the Pines by ferry from Cherry Grove

-Fabulously-dressed participants strut down a red carpet at the Pines Marina

-Cheering crowds line the dock to welcome the invaders
After-Parties-Festivities continue at the bars and beaches of the Pines

-Dancing, drinking, and celebrating diversity and freedom

The tradition started back in 1976 when a group of drag queens from Cherry Grove “invaded” the Pines in protest of a restaurant that refused to serve one of their own. Today, the event draws hundreds of participants and onlookers, all celebrating the spirit of individuality and acceptance.

Insider Tip: To join in on the fun, catch the ferry from Cherry Grove (if you’re in drag) or head to the Pines Marina to watch the invasion. Afterwards, be sure to check out the famous Tea Dance at the Blue Whale, a beloved Fire Island tradition.

Other Fun Places to Celebrate the 4th of July in the USA

Smiling woman waves flag outdoors, joyful 4th of July scene.

If you’re looking for even more awesome spots to celebrate America’s Independence Day, check out these super cool places across the country. Each one has its own special way of throwing a 4th of July party, from small-town fun to big-city excitement.

  • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Philly goes all out with the Wawa Welcome America event, which lasts from June 19 to July 4. It’s got 16 days of free things to do, ending with a concert featuring famous singers like Ludacris and Demi Lovato. After the concert, there’s an amazing fireworks show over the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
  • Cody, Wyoming: If you want to experience a small-town 4th of July, Cody’s annual Stampede Rodeo is perfect. It lasts for five days and has parades, rodeos, and fireworks. It’s a real American celebration in the middle of Yellowstone County.
  • Key West, Florida: Known for its chill vibe, Key West has a unique 4th of July celebration with parties on boats, including a fireworks cruise. There’s also the Key Lime Festival that happens during the holiday weekend.
  • Detroit, Michigan: Detroit is great for families, with the Ford Fireworks on the Detroit Riverwalk, live music, and other fun things to do.
  • Minneapolis, Minnesota: In Minneapolis, you can enjoy music and family activities along the city’s riverfront. It all ends with an incredible fireworks show at Stone Arch Bridge.
  • Miami, Florida: Miami puts a cool twist on the 4th of July with the MISO 4th of July Celebration at Peacock Park. The Miami Symphony Orchestra plays American classics, and there’s even a drone show.
  • San Francisco, California: Celebrate with beautiful views of the beach, fireworks over the Golden Gate Bridge, and the lively spirit of this famous city.

No matter where you choose to spend the 4th of July in 2024, you’re sure to find a celebration that sparks your sense of patriotism and pride. From big-city spectacles to small-town traditions, there’s no shortage of star-spangled fun to be had across the USA.

Where is the Best Place for the 4th of July?

The best place to celebrate the 4th of July is in Washington, D.C.! You can watch the amazing fireworks show at the National Mall. Get there early to enjoy “A Capitol Fourth,” a concert with lots of music stars. It starts at 8 p.m., but the fireworks are the big show! It’s super fun and everyone loves seeing the sky light up with colors. Plus, it’s all free, so bring your family and friends for a fantastic time!

What City Celebrated 4th of July First?

Philadelphia was the first city to celebrate the 4th of July with an organized event. This celebration took place on July 4, 1777, and included a variety of festivities such as fireworks, a 13-gun salute, and public readings of the Declaration of Independence. The event set a precedent for future Independence Day celebrations across the United States.

What is the Difference Between the 4th of July and the Independence Day?

“4th of July” and “Independence Day” both point to the same U.S. holiday celebrated on July 4th each year. The term “4th of July” simply notes the date and is often used when talking about parties, fireworks, and parades. On the other hand, “Independence Day” highlights the history behind the holiday, marking when the U.S. declared independence from Britain in 1776. Both names mean the same thing, just with a different focus.

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