Fireworks over city skylines, parades streaming down historic streets, and entire towns turning red, white, and blue; when it comes to the Fourth of July, the United States doesn’t hold back.
As 2025’s Independence Day draws near, Americans across all 50 states are gearing up for another high-voltage celebration of national pride, freedom, and community. From coast to coast, here are the most dazzling festivities to mark your calendars.
New York City: Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks
New York’s Fourth of July celebrations are as iconic as its skyline. The annual Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks display lights up the East River with more than 60,000 shells launched from multiple barges. This year’s display is set to be even grander, with a new musical score celebrating American innovation and resilience.
Prime viewing spots include Gantry Plaza State Park in Queens and Brooklyn Bridge Park – though many opt to book rooftop terraces (we recommend MeiLi Rooftop) or take to the water on fireworks cruises for an unobstructed view.
To complete the day, head to Coney Island for Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, an oddly compelling tradition that continues to draw both curious spectators and dedicated fans.
Washington, D.C.: A Capitol Fourth
The nation’s capital hosts one of the most stirring celebrations, blending patriotic pageantry with cultural gravitas. A Capitol Fourth – the city’s official fireworks and concert event – takes place on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, featuring performances by major recording artists and a live orchestra.
Fireworks are set to explode over the National Mall, framed by the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, offering one of the most visually striking backdrops in the country.
Many also flock to the National Archives for a public reading of the Declaration of Independence, a fitting reminder of the day’s historical roots.
Boston, Massachusetts: Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular
Few cities celebrate the Fourth with as much historic weight as Boston – the cradle of the American Revolution. The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular is a must-see, with a live performance from the famed Boston Pops Orchestra followed by fireworks over the Charles River Esplanade.
With thousands gathering along the water’s edge, the event feels both intimate and grand. In addition to the music and pyrotechnics, there’s also a reading of the Declaration at the Old State House and walking tours that trace the city’s revolutionary past.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Wawa Welcome America Festival
Philadelphia’s celebrations stretch beyond a single day. The Wawa Welcome America Festival is a multi-day affair with free concerts, museum entry, outdoor film screenings, and family-friendly activities across the city.
On the Fourth itself, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway transforms into a corridor of music, food trucks, and flag-waving revellers, leading to a massive fireworks finale over the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Given Philly’s historical importance, visitors can also experience immersive re-enactments and explore Independence Hall – where both the Declaration and the Constitution were signed.
Nashville, Tennessee: Let Freedom Sing!
Nashville knows how to throw a party – and Independence Day is no exception. Let Freedom Sing! combines country music’s biggest names with a jaw-dropping fireworks display synced to live music from the Nashville Symphony.
This free downtown event draws hundreds of thousands to Lower Broadway, where bars, honky-tonks, and open-air stages create a carnival-like atmosphere. If you’re staying through the weekend, local venues host special performances and themed events, making it a prime destination for music lovers.
For cultural celebrations around the world, find them here.
