Explosions booming in the air. Festive music and good food. Merriment and fellowship while celebrating our liberty—and that was in 1777. Fast-forward 244 years and celebrating Independence Day in grand fashion is still a beloved tradition. Speaking of traditions, after many cancelations in 2020, fireworks shows are back and here are five of the biggest annual Fourth of July celebrations from across the nation:
The 45th Annual Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks®—New York City at 8 p.m. ET
Each year, this fireworks spectacular is usually attended by millions of people, and each year, approximately 75,000 pounds of fireworks go off. What’s more, after years on the Hudson, the event is returning to the East River with the Brooklyn Bridge as the launchpad for the 2022 celebrations. This event can be seen from multiple unobstructed areas along the river and midtown. If you’re not in New York, you can watch the festivities live on NBC. This year will also feature a drone light show during the Jonas Brothers’ performance. Check you Macys.com for entertainment lineups and viewing information.
Wawa Welcome America! Festival—Philadelphia at 7 p.m. ET
This weeklong extravaganza literally happens on the steps of where it all began. From the historic parade in front of Independence Hall to the “largest free concert” in America to the Grand Finale Fireworks display on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the City of Brotherly Love will be jam-packed with blocks of patriotic parties this Fourth of July. This year’s concert headliners include: Bebe Rexha, Flo Rida and a special performance from the Philly POPS. More information can be found at WelcomeAmerica.com.
Kaboom Town!—Addison, Texas at 7:30 p.m. CT
For nearly three decades, thousands of people have descended upon the Dallas suburb of Addison on July 3 to catch the nationally recognized fireworks display. The all-night, family-friendly event features live music, food from local restaurants and even historic warplane flyovers. More information can be found at Addison KaboomTown and a livestream broadcast of the event can be found on the Town of Addison’s YouTube Channel.
2022 Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular—Boston at 8 p.m. ET
Often called “America’s Orchestra,” the Boston Pops will be performed at Tanglewood in Lenox, MA, lead by Keith Lockhart for a live televised and streamed performance. Special guests include The Late Show with Stephen Colbert’s Jon Batiste and legendary singer Mavis Staples. In partnership with the City of Boston, the fireworks finale will be held at the Boston Commons. While this event is sold out, much of the performances and fireworks show will be televised from 8 – 10:30 p.m. ET.