From Sea to Shining Sea: The Best July 4th Events
No matter where you live in the country, the Fourth of July is the perfect time to go out and experience the best your city has to offer. If you're looking for some fun and festive activities to get into this year, we've rounded up some of the most exciting events happening around the country.
New York
Macy's 4th of July Fireworks: You can enjoy this magnificent parade from the comfort of your own home on the TV, or take a trip down to Pier 36 and buy a ticket to view the parade in all of its glory on a cruise with an open bar and a live DJ.
Williamsburg, Brooklyn: Head to Williamsburg, where not only will you have an amazing view of the Macy’s fireworks show from East River State Park or Domino Park, but after the show you can indulge in all the phenomenal cuisine this neighborhood has to offer. Craving cocktails, a grandiose dinner, and live jazz? Take a trip to Bedford Ave and eat at Maison Premiere. Want to have a traditional – but elevated – Fourth? Make your way to the hottest BBQ joint Fette Sau.
Seastreak Ferry: For all the folks who want to escape from the hustle-and-bustle of the city for the weekend, two words: Seastreak. Ferries. Take a ride along the coast of NYC, New Jersey and New England and bask in the beauty of places like Sandy Hook Beach, Nantucket, and Martha's Vineyard. Did we also mention it includes a well-equipped bar?
Los Angeles
Fireworks at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena – AmericaFest: Honda is presenting its 93rd annual "AmericaFest," featuring a stunning fireworks show and live entertainment.
Angel City Brewery ‘Merica Fest: Why just celebrate on the Fourth? Angel City Brewery is kicking off their annual Fourth of July fest with celebrations on the 2nd and 3rd too! Come to the Downtown LA area for live music, beers & BBQ!
Grand Park + The Music Center Fourth of July Block Party in DTLA: Enjoy a picnic, arts and crafts, music, fireworks in Downtown LA, all completely free of charge.
San Francisco
Speakeasy Firework Cruise on the Bay: All aboard the Fume Blanc Commodore! This speakeasy cruise allows you to party it up on the dance floor with two DJs while taking in some of the most beautiful sites the Bay has to offer like Treasure Island, Alcatraz, The Bay Bridge, Nob Hill, the Golden Gate Bridge and the magnificent San Francisco skyline.
48th Kenwood Footrace: Before eating your weight in BBQ, take the opportunity to participate in the oldest running 10K footrace in Sonoma County, California.
Napa Valley Wine Train: One of the most unique ways to tour the lush Napa Valley is this three-and-a-half-hour tour on a vintage train. Indulge in a multiple-course meal, while enjoying a beautiful fireworks spectacle.
Boston
Reading Of The Declaration Of Independence: Skipped history class too often? Every year at 9:00 AM in City Hall Plaza, the Captain Commanding of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts reads the Declaration of Independence from the balcony of the Old State House in Boston.
Boston Harborfest 2019: Now for a weeklong celebration! This family-friendly event is the country's largest Fourth of July festival. Activities include the annual opening ceremony at Faneuil Hall, historical reenactments, Freedom Trail walks, boat tours, live entertainment and much more.
Chicago
Fireworks at Navy Pier: This Fourth, head down to the iconic Navy Pier in Chicago to view a spectacular firework show along the downtown lakefront. There will be plenty of events and activities going on at the Pier throughout the day, including live performances at the Miller Lite Beer Garden. You do not want to miss it, but if you do, the Pier will hold free firework displays every Wednesday and Saturday evening all summer long.
The 4th on 53rd Parade and Picnic: A great way to celebrate a traditional Fourth of July, this parade starts at 54th and Old Lake Park Avenue, where you can decorate your bike and then join the parade down Lake Park Avenue, Hyde Park Boulevard and Nichols Park.
Grant Park Music Festival: Come down to Jay Pritzker Pavilion for your Fourth to enjoy an evening of patriotic music followed by a showcase of the Navy Pier fireworks by the lakefront. A perfect chance for a big group lakeside-picnic!
Washington DC
Fireworks on the Mall: Enjoy a spectacular fireworks show over our National Mall on Constitution Avenue! The fireworks will be launched from West Potomac Park and will be visible from many locations throughout D.C. and Northern Virginia.
Washington Nationals vs Miami Marlins: It is an annual tradition for the Washington Nationals to play at Nationals Park on Independence day. This year, the Nationals will take on division rival the Miami Marlins. Expect an exciting game and an energetic atmosphere to kick off the celebration for the Fourth.
4th of July at the Anthem: The Anthem's Marquee Bar is having an independence day bash with an endless American picnic buffet, a cash bar, a DJ and lastly, an incredible view of the fireworks by on the Wharf.