Fourth of July is upon us! Read on for the most elaborate firework displays in honor of America’s most patriotic holiday.
Americans love celebrating the Fourth of July. Not only does the country’s most patriotic holiday mark its independence, but Fourth of July is a time gather with loved ones and celebrate summer at its finest: relax on the beach, go for a swim, throw some burgers, steaks ribs and hot dogs on the grill, and simply enjoy good company.
Fourth of July culminates in a grand finale that occurs long after the sun has set: Fireworks! Spectators gather to watch the sky light up red, white, blue, and more. Neighborhood dwellers close streets or convene on an empty field or beach to put on a pyrotechnics show of their own while cities and counties produce grander spectacles.
Here’s a look at some of the most explosive fireworks fiestas in the major U.S. cities.
1. New York: East Side and West Side
Since 1958, Macy’s has hosted New York‘s immense Fourth of July extravaganza, the country’s largest, in which 40,000 and 50,000 fireworks are ignited. It takes place near Pier 17 and is slated to begin at around 9.20pm. West Siders can check out the Jersey City and Statue of Liberty fireworks starting at 9.30pm. Each lasts about 30 minutes.
New York City
2. Washington, DC: National Mall
What better place to celebrate the most patriotic American holiday than the nation’s capital? In Washington DC, music and festivities last all day long. A fireworks display over the reflecting popol at the Lincoln Memorial starts at around 9.15pm It’s magical! Lawn access opens at 10am, so arrive early to claim your spot.
National Mall, Washington D.C
3.Chicago: Navy Pier
Fireworks are a regular occurance during summer on Lake Michigan’s stunning Navy Pier in Chicago, yet the Fourth of July celebration is by far the grandest. Park yourself on a pier, buy a boat ticket to watch from the water or reserve a spot in one of the outdoor restaurants for the best seats in the house.
Chicago Navy Pier
4. Boston: Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular
This two-day Fourth of July event in Boston culminates in the grand finale: An explosive 30-minute fireworks spectacular above the Charles River. The show is held at the DCR Hatch Shell on the Esplanade which opens at 9.00am so spectators can arrive early and claim their spot. The concert begins at 8.30pm.
Boston’s Dome
5. Las Vegas: The Strip
Because there’s no such thing as too much light, Las Vegas boasts an entire agenda of festivities. Many hotels throw pool parties and barbecues, and the grand fireworks spectacular takes place at Caesar’s Palace.
Las Vegas
6. San Francisco: Bay Pier
A day-long soiree on San Francisco‘s Pier 39 will showcase special and musical performances. Fireworks begin at 9.30pm. Several local cruise lines offer speicals to watch the spectacle from the water, so book those in advance. Also, Fisherman’s Wharf, a great place to watch the Pier 39 fireworks, will have activities all day long.
San Francisco Bay Pier
7.Los Angeles: Marina del Rey
Spend Fourth of July in Los Angeles, Marina del Ray, in particular. To watch the fireworks, picnic in the park, savor a waterfront dinner or hop on a cruise. The show kicks off at 9.00pm and lasts for twenty minutes. Best viewing points include Fisherman’s Village, Burton Chace Park, or Marina (Mother’s) Beach.
Marina del Rey, Los Angeles