I really cannot believe that tomorrow it’ll be July! I really seems like it was just yesterday that I was shoveling an endless amount of snow from my driveway. This summer has certainly gone by all too quickly but I am, surely, loving every second of it. And, better yet, I cannot wait for this weekend!
This Friday is the 4th of July and while, for me, it has far more meaning than just fireworks and barbecues, I will try to keep this lighthearted. While I may be the girl constantly stopping to salute, thank, and shake hands with our service members, past and present, I know that the holiday has become full of extravagant festivities and fun for all. Now, while I do encourage that you take the time to honor the fallen and enjoy the holiday for its core meaning, I also wish you all an incredibly festive and exciting time.
Of course, with that come the fireworks. With a plethora of shows nationwide this Friday and the weekend that follows, do you know where the best ones are? While I’ve always been partial to local events due to the sense of community that coincides, some of the top viewing sites are the best for exactly that – the view!
Enhance your fireworks
If you’re looking to enhance your fireworks experience or even put on your own display, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the art of pyrotechnics. For a comprehensive understanding, try taking the time to read this guide to pyrotechnics or enroll in a local workshop where you can learn from experienced pyrotechnicians. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, expanding your knowledge can elevate your fireworks experience to new heights, ensuring a memorable and awe-inspiring celebration.
If you live nearby, you may want to check out one of these Top Ten Cities to watch July 4th Fireworks with Iconic Views. Not only will you get to gaze in awe of a spectacular celebratory fireworks display but you’ll get to take in the beauty of some of America’s greatest sights.
- Jersey City, NJ – Jersey City will host a grand fireworks production at Liberty State Park. With the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Freedom Tower as its backdrop and views overlooking the Hudson River, the display is promising to be the biggest in the state of New Jersey. There will be dozens of food vendors, carnival rides, games and activities for children, as well as live performances by Craig Morgan and Kristen Redmond. The event will support Folds of Honor – a nonprofit that provides scholarships to children and spouses of fallen soldiers.
- Washington, DC – Each year, fireworks are launched from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, illuminating the sky behind the Washington Monument. Depending on viewing areas, the Capitol and the White House can be seen as well.
- San Francisco – Pier 39 provides panoramic views of San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge, which serve as the backdrop for its annual fireworks extravaganza.
- St. Louis – The fireworks display at the nation’s tallest monument, the Gateway Arch, has been voted by Readers Digest as one of America’s Most Spectacular Fourth of July Fireworks.
- Seattle – The Fourth of July celebrations at Gas Works Park & South Lake Union Park will feature skydivers descending at twilight, followed by a 20-minute fireworks show with the Space Needle viewable in the background.
- Charleston – Spectators can enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience watching a fireworks show from the flight deck of an Aircraft Carrier, the USS Yorktown.
- Philadelphia – The Benjamin Franklin Parkway is the annual host of America’s “Largest Free Concert.” The Party on the Parkway attracts 500,000 people annually and culminates with performances by well-known recording artists. This year, the celebrations will feature performances by The Roots, Ed Sheeran, Nicki Minaj, Jennifer Hudson, Aloe Blacc, Ariana Grande and Vicci Martinez, and fireworks will be launched over the Museum of Art.
- New Orleans – Barges battle on the Mississippi River at ‘Go 4th on the River’ in New Orleans, with each barge one-upping the other with their extravagant fireworks, which can be viewed from either side of the river.
- Orlando – Blazing fireworks and special effects illuminate the sky over Disney World’s Cinderella Castle, accompanied by an uplifting musical score. (My personal favorite!)
- Boston – The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular is one of the nation’s largest Fourth of July parties. The fireworks are shot over the Charles River. Spectators can get unobstructed views along the river from a number of locations including the Longfellow Bridge, and for those who want the experience from the historic Boston Harbor individuals can view from their personal boats or organized boat cruises.
No matter where you choose to spend your holiday, I and the entire Eighty MPH Mom team wish you all an absolutely wonderful and happy Independence Day!
