10 best 4th of July events in USA that are a must-visit

In the U.S., there are many ways to celebrate the Fourth of July. These include large-scale patriotic events and public parties. Each city puts forward its own special celebration, which may see historical reenactments or a display of fireworks over the beach and fun carnivals. Also, in 2025, we have a list of 10 great places to check out for the 4th of July, which have something different to offer to tourists and residents.

10 best 4th of July events in USA that are a must-visit

1. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

Mount Rushmore National Memorial is home to a two day celebration on July 3rd and 4th. They have reenactors that dress up as the four U.S. presidents which brings history to life. At the event, you can attend a press briefing which is staged, meet the characters who are present in person, and also have an evening lighting event at the amphitheater. While they don’t have fireworks, the atmosphere is very patriotic in a more subdued way.

2. Huntington Beach, California

This town in Southern California, known as “Surf City USA,” puts on a few days of fun that sees large attendance. They have a 5K run which goes from the city to the beach, a parade down Main Street, and the Pier Plaza Festival which features amusement rides, food courts, and live music. On July 4th at 9 p.m., the sky over the ocean was set alight by fireworks to end the celebration.

3. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole celebrates the Fourth of July with traditional Western activities. The day kicks off with a pancake breakfast for the community. A parade and a reenacted Wild West shootout add to the fun. Rodeos at the Teton County Fairgrounds complete the festive vibe. Firework shows light up Teton Village and Snow King Mountain on both July 3 and July 4.

4. Aptos, California

Aptos marks Independence Day with what many call the world’s shortest parade, covering 0.6 miles. Even with the short route, crowds come out in big numbers. After the parade in the morning, people head to Aptos Village Park to enjoy music, food, and other activities together.

5. Macy’s Fireworks, New York City

New York City holds one of the nation's most exciting fireworks shows over the East River. Macy’s Fireworks includes music, live performances, and several spots to watch, like the FDR Drive or Brooklyn Heights Promenade. The show kicks off at about 9:25 p.m., but it’s better to get there to grab a good spot.

6. National Mall Fireworks, Washington D.C.

The National Mall in D.C. sets up its massive July Fourth festivities with famous landmarks like the Washington Monument and Capitol as the backdrop. The celebration includes a fireworks display, live shows, and activities set up for families across the Mall and nearby spots.

7. Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular, Massachusetts

Boston’s Charles River Esplanade sets the stage for a fireworks show that syncs up with live music from the Boston Pops. Many head to the Cambridge side of the river or the Longfellow Bridge to watch.

8. Lights on the Lake, Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe uses its sparkly water and tall mountains to enhance its Fourth of July fireworks. Fireworks shoot up from several spots, creating views all around. People often gather at Commons Beach or Kings Beach State Recreation Area to get a good spot.

9. Wawa Welcome America Philadelphia

Philadelphia hosts a yearly celebration with a free concert on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. This event also includes historic reenactments and local parades in various neighborhoods. People can watch the festivities from spots like Penn’s Landing or rooftops spread across Center City.

10. Atlantic City, New Jersey

Atlantic City brings in over 250,000 people to watch its massive fireworks show called “We the People, By the People, For the People.” The display can be seen from the boardwalk, beaches, and nearby tall buildings. These viewing spots add to the lively holiday vibe.

These celebrations provide a mix of history, culture, and entertainment to enjoy the Fourth of July across the country.