Planning Your Fourth of July Celebrations

Grab a blanket, some snacks and enjoy the annual Fourth of July spectacular at a park near you.

Better yet, take a drive to some of the nation’s most spectacular fireworks displays and watch true artists fill the lofty firmament with a memorable show.

Here are some sparkling recommendations.

• For a list of fireworks displays in your area: CLICK HERE.
• Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Show, New York City: Massive barges anchored in East River launch fireworks for 25 straight minutes, easily making this the largest such display in the country. The elaborate show includes a performance by the United States Air Force Band as tens of thousands of fireworks shimmer against New York City’s iconic skyline. This year marks Macy’s 40th anniversary hosting the annual celebration that airs at 8 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on NBC.
• Go Fourth on the River, New Orleans: Forget dueling banjos, New Orleans has dueling barges. The gulf city’s enjoys an elaborate fireworks display easily visible from the historic French Quarter. The show starts at 9 p.m. and lasts for 15 to 20 minutes. New Orleans tourism officials suggest staking out a spot in Woldenberg or Crescent parks for stellar views.
• Fireworks at Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park, Denver: Cap off a day spent twisting around water slides and riding roller coasters with a grand fireworks display in downtown Denver. The show starts at dusk.
• The Strip, Las Vegas: OF COURSE Las Vegas isn’t going to let July 4 landing on a Monday deter its celebrations. The celebrations are expected to start Friday, July 1, with the strip festooned in red, white, and blue. On July 4th, casinos compete with each other to put on the most elaborate fireworks display.
• Big Bay Boom, San Diego: Home to Marine Corps. and US Navy installations, San Diego isn’t shy about letting its patriotic flag fly. Four barges stationed in North San Diego Bay launch fireworks displays starting at 9 p.m. The shows are clearly visible from Harbor and Shelter islands, as well as the Embarcadero and the Seaport Village/Coronado Landing.