Fireworks for the Fourth

July 1, 2014

The Fourth of July, otherwise known as Independence day, is one of America’s grandest holidays.  Depending on where you live, you may have access to a fireworks show.  All major cities will have some sort of immense fireworks extravaganza for the public to see, so if you plan on attending a large event I would encourage you to look to your local news services for listings of the different venues.  Some events may have fees for attendance, so definitely pay attention to that.

Here’s a brief list of cities and some of their more popular events:

1. San Diego

  • The Annual Big Bay Boom is the largest fireworks show in San Diego County.  There are four barges that launch off fireworks over North San Diego Bay – I have seen this in person, and it doesn’t disappoint!  The show starts at 9:00 sharp.
  • Sea to Shining Sea 4th of July Firework is Sea World’s impressive 4th of July display.  The fun begins at 10:10.
  • There is also a show at Ocean Beach at 9:00 where you can relax on the sand  while fireworks are shot off the pier!Big Bay Boom Fireworks Show San Diego

2. Saint Louis

  • The Gateway Arch is a symbol of St. Louis and also an awesome place for watching fireworks on the 4th.  If you are in the mood to lay out on the grass surrounding the Arch and get close to the live music, you need to make sure you get there early, as the show starts at around 9:20 but people will be staking their claims to prime viewing much earlier.
  • Laclede’s Landing in the historic Riverfront district offers fireworks, airshows, and many restaurants and art vendors for an all around fun experience from noon to 11 PM.

3. Phoenix

  • The greater Phoenix area sprawls across the desert with many events celebrating the 4th.  One such event is the 4th of Zoo-Ly hosted by the Phoenix Zoo.  This family-oriented event goes from 7-10 PM and has viewing of the Tempe Town Lake Fireworks Spectacular show (which can also be viewed from an event at Tempe Town Lake) from a “VIP” section.  Reservations are required.
  • Fabulous Phoenix Fourth is a big party with over 100,000 attendees each year.  There is a classic car show, local entertainment, a splash zone for those who want to cool down from the heat, and of course, one of the largest free fireworks shows in the state starting at 9:30 PM.

Fireworks at Gateway Arch and Tempe Town Lake

4. Tampa

  • Tampa offers twilight cruises where you can watch the fireworks display in style – out on the water – and get a whole new viewpoint of the show with the fireworks reflecting off of the water! Fireworks launch at 9:30 PM.
  • The Florida Aquarium offers a family atmosphere with many child-friendly festivities.  Fireworks shoot off at 9 PM.

5. San Antonio

  • San Antonio is a city with its own bit of American Independence history with the Battle of the Alamo taking place here.  The 4th of July Celebration at Woodlawn Park is a party thrown by the San Antonio Parks Foundation.  There is a  “military appreciation zone”, a kids zone, a children’s parade, and live music.  And to top it off, fireworks launch at 9:30.

Fireworks over Tampa Bay and San Antonio

This list is just the tip of the iceberg!  Are there any particular fireworks shows that you plan on attending this 4th of July?