Happy Birthday USA, born July 4, 1776. Here are some of the best Fourth of July celebrations in the USA, in New York City, Washington, DC and elsewhere, including fireworks, concerts and parades.
NYC: Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular
Where: Hudson River, 14th to 34th Streets
It’s the granddaddy of all Fourth of July fireworks celebrations, returning to the Hudson River after a decade along the East River.
The 30-minute fireworks spectacular features more than 60,000 shells fired from barges in the Hudson River, with prime viewing sites on the West Side of Manhattan and from Hoboken in New Jersey.
See our guide to best viewing spots for the Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular.
Washington, D.C.: Parade and Concert
Route: Constitution Avenue from 7th to 17th Street
The nation’s capital hosts one of the most iconic Independence Day parades, featuring military bands, elaborate floats, and cultural performances.
The parade route along Constitution Avenue offers a picturesque backdrop with views of historic landmarks like the National Archives and the Washington Monument.
The Fourth of July celebration in the Nation’s Capital also includes a popular FREE concert, broadcast nationwide by PBS.
Huntington Beach, California: Beachside Festivities
Route: Along Pacific Coast Highway
Known as Surf City USA, Huntington Beach combines beach culture with patriotic celebrations.
The parade includes vintage cars, surfing legends, and lively performances, all set against the stunning coastal scenery.
This unique blend of beach vibes and patriotic fervor makes the Huntington Beach parade a standout event on the West Coast.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming: Rustic Charm
Route: Through the lamp-lit streets of downtown
This parade captures the rustic charm of the American West with horse-drawn carriages, rodeo riders, and traditional Western music.
The lamp-lit streets of downtown Jackson Hole provide a magical setting for this unique celebration.
The parade’s western flair and picturesque setting offer a different take on the traditional Independence Day festivities.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: The Birthplace of America
Route: Market St. and North Broad St.
As the birthplace of American independence, Philadelphia’s parade is steeped in history.
Marching bands, Colonial reenactors, and patriotic floats make their way through historic streets, culminating near the iconic Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
Alameda, California: Community Spirit
Route: Lincoln Avenue
Alameda’s parade is a testament to community spirit, featuring local schools, civic organizations, and creative floats.
The small-town atmosphere and enthusiastic participants make this parade a heartwarming experience. This event highlights the close-knit nature of the community and its vibrant local culture.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Smoky Mountain Celebration
Route: Downtown Gatlinburg
Nestled in the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg’s parade features colorful floats, marching bands, and local performers.
The charming, lamp-lit streets of downtown add a touch of magic to the festivities.
The combination of natural beauty and community spirit makes this parade a unique and memorable celebration.
Southport, North Carolina: Coastal Charm
Features: First responders, local bands, clowns, and more
Southport’s parade showcases the coastal charm of North Carolina with a mix of traditional and quirky elements.
Expect to see first responders, local bands, clowns, and community floats, all contributing to a lively and fun-filled atmosphere.
This parade is a perfect representation of the town’s vibrant coastal culture and community involvement.
Aptos, California: Short but Sweet
Route: A 0.6-mile route
Aptos hosts a brief but delightful parade, perfect for families and those looking for a quick dose of patriotic celebration.
Despite its short route, the parade features festive floats and local participants, creating a cheerful community vibe. This parade’s brevity does not detract from its charm and festive spirit.
Bainbridge Island, Washington: Island Festivities
Route: From Madison Avenue
This island community comes together to celebrate with a parade that winds through Madison Avenue.
Bainbridge Island’s parade is known for its friendly atmosphere, creative floats, and participation from local businesses and organizations.
The island setting adds a unique charm to the celebration, making it a special event for both locals and visitors.
Bainbridge Island is a short and scenic ferry trip from downtown Seattle
Arlington, Texas: All-American Parade
Route: Center Street
Marching bands, cheerleaders, and elaborate floats parade through downtown. t event in the local calendar. This parade encapsulates the spirit of Texas with its grand scale and enthusiastic participation.
Boston, Massachusetts: Historic Route
Route: City Hall Downtown
Boston’s parade takes you through the heart of American history.
The route includes stops at key historical sites, providing a unique blend of celebration and education. Marching bands, historical reenactments, and patriotic displays make this a must-see parade.
The historic backdrop adds a profound sense of tradition and patriotism to the festivities.
Pacific Palisades, California: Coastal Fun
Features: Flyover of WWII fighter planes
Pacific Palisades offers a fun-filled parade with unique elements like a flyover of WWII fighter planes and dogs dressed in patriotic costumes.
The coastal setting adds to the festive atmosphere, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike. This parade’s quirky elements and beautiful location create a lively and memorable celebration.
Round Rock, Texas: Downtown Delight
Route: Main Street, through downtown
Round Rock’s parade winds through its charming downtown area, featuring floats, marching bands, and local performers.
The community’s enthusiasm and participation make this parade a delightful experience. The parade’s route through the historic downtown area adds to its charm and festive atmosphere.
St. Louis, Missouri: Urban Celebration
Route: Down Market Street
St. Louis hosts a grand parade down Market Street, showcasing the city’s rich cultural diversity. Expect to see colorful floats, cultural performances, and a vibrant display of patriotism.
This parade is a vibrant celebration of the city’s diverse communities and their contributions to American culture.
Wheaton, Illinois: Small-Town Charm
Route: Main Street
Wheaton’s parade offers a quintessential small-town American experience.
The route through Main Street and Hawthorne Boulevard features community groups, local bands, and festive floats, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The parade’s small-town charm and community spirit make it a delightful and heartwarming celebration.
Thanks to the travel trade publication Travel & Tour World for this research.
ecoXplorer Evelyn Kanter is a journalist with 25+ years of experience as a newspaper and magazine writer, radio & TV news producer & reporter, and author of guidebooks and smartphone apps – all focusing on travel, automotive, the environment and your rights as a consumer.
ecoXplorer Evelyn Kanter currently serves as President of the International Motor Press Assn. (IMPA).
ecoXplorer Evelyn Kanter also is a member of the North American Travel Journalists Assn. (NATJA) and the North American Snowsports Journalists Assn. (NASJA).
Contact me at evelyn@ecoxplorer.com.
Copyright (C) Evelyn Kanter
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