Few things feel better than watching fireworks light up the night sky. The booms echo through the trees, the smell of smoke lingers, and hearing fellow night-gazers go “wow” creates memories that stick around long after the show is over.
We’ve put together a list of 30 amazing places in the U.S. and Canada where you can catch incredible fireworks displays this summer. Grab your camping gear, start up the RV, and get ready for the most epic summer adventure ever!
New York City, NY
Boston, MA
Philadelphia, PA
Nashville, TN
Chicago, IL
St. Louis, MO
Minneapolis, MI
Dallas-Fort Worth, TX
Atlantic City, NJ
Toronto, ON
Vancouver, BC
Montreal, QC
Niagara Falls, ON
Calgary, AB
Halifax, NS
Quebec City, QC
Victoria, BC
Winnipeg, MB
San Francisco, CA
Portland, OR
Savannah, GA
Seattle, WA
New Orleans, LA
San Diego, CA
Lake Tahoe, CA/NV
Anchorage, AK
Gatlinburg, TN
Denver, CO
United States Fireworks Extravaganzas
1. Washington, D.C. – National Mall Fireworks
There’s something profoundly moving about watching fireworks burst behind the Washington Monument and reflect in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The National Mall’s Fourth of July celebration is more than just a fireworks show – it’s a patriotic experience that belongs on every American’s bucket list.
Insider Tip: Skip the crowded Mall and head to Gravelly Point Park across the Potomac. You’ll get stunning views with the monuments silhouetted in the foreground.
Make It A Trip: While in the area, spend a day exploring the Smithsonian museums (they’re free!), take a moonlight tour of the monuments, or venture to nearby Annapolis for some sailing on the Chesapeake Bay.
Nearby KOAs:
Washington D.C. / Capitol KOA Holiday
2. New York City, NY – Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks
The Macy’s fireworks extravaganza is like the Thanksgiving Day Parade of pyrotechnics – a true New York spectacle. With multiple barges launching synchronized displays that reflect in the East River and illuminate the city skyline, it’s no wonder that over two million spectators gather to watch annually.
Insider Tip: For a less-crowded experience, watch from the Long Island City neighborhood in Queens. Gantry Plaza State Park offers stunning Manhattan views across the water.
Make It A Trip: Combine your NYC fireworks adventure with a few days exploring the scenic Hudson Valley. Wineries, hiking trails, and historic estates like the Vanderbilt Mansion make for perfect day trips from your KOA base.
Nearby KOAs:
Delaware Water Gap/Pocono Mountain KOA Holiday
3. Boston, MA – Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular
Boston’s July 4th celebration uniquely blends world-class orchestral music with incredible fireworks. The Boston Pops performs Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” (complete with real cannon fire) before a 20-minute fireworks show erupts over the Charles River.
Insider Tip: The Longfellow Bridge offers excellent views away from the main crowds at the Esplanade.
Make It A Trip: Take the opportunity to drive the historic Freedom Trail and then head to Cape Cod for beach days and whale watching tours.
Nearby KOAs:
Boston / Cape Cod KOA Holiday
4. Philadelphia, PA – Wawa Welcome America Festival
Philadelphia doesn’t just celebrate Independence Day! Instead, it throws a weeklong party culminating in a spectacular display over the Philadelphia Museum of Art on July 4th. As the birthplace of American independence, Philly goes all out with concerts, historical reenactments, and one of the largest free outdoor festivals in the country.
Insider Tip: Boathouse Row along the Schuylkill River offers a gorgeous, less crowded viewing spot with the lit-up historic boathouses in the foreground.
Make It A Trip: Visit Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell in the morning, grab a famous Philly cheesesteak for lunch, and return to your campsite to relax before heading back for evening fireworks.
Nearby KOAs:
Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA Holiday
Philadelphia / West Chester KOA Holiday
5. Nashville, TN – Let Freedom Sing! Music City
Nashville’s July 4th celebration combines what the city does best – live music and spectacle! With performances by chart-topping country artists and the GRAMMY-winning Nashville Symphony, this free event culminates in one of the largest fireworks shows in the South.
Insider Tip: Watch from the Korean Veterans Boulevard Bridge for an uncrowded view with the skyline in the background.
Make It A Trip: Spend your days exploring the Country Music Hall of Fame, taking a tour of the Grand Ole Opry, and sampling Tennessee whiskey at local distilleries.
Nearby KOAs:
Nashville KOA Resort
Nashville East/Lebanon KOA Journey
6. Chicago, IL – Navy Pier Fireworks
Chicago’s Navy Pier hosts twice-weekly summer fireworks, but the July 4th display is particularly magnificent. With bursts of color reflecting off Lake Michigan and the iconic skyline as a backdrop, it’s a photographer’s dream and a family favorite.
Insider Tip: Watch from Olive Park just north of Navy Pier for a less crowded experience with excellent views.
Make It A Trip: Take advantage of Chicago’s excellent museums like the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium during the day, then head to the lakeshore for evening fireworks.
Nearby KOAs:
Chicago Northwest KOA Holiday
7. St. Louis, MO – Fair Saint Louis
America’s Birthday Party under the Gateway Arch is a multi-day festival (July 2-4) featuring air shows, live music, food vendors, and nightly fireworks that reflect magnificently off the Mississippi River and the Arch’s gleaming surface.
Insider Tip: Malcolm W. Martin Memorial Park, across the river in East St. Louis, offers spectacular views of the Arch and fireworks without the massive crowds.
Make It A Trip: Visit the Gateway Arch National Park, take a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi, and spend a day at the world-class St. Louis Zoo (admission is free!).
Nearby KOAs:
St. Louis West/Historic Route 66 KOA Holiday
St. Louis N.E./I-270/Granite City KOA Journey
8. Minneapolis, MN – Red, White and Boom!
Minneapolis’s largest annual event transforms the banks of the Mississippi River into a patriotic playground on July 4th with live music, family activities, and a stunning fireworks display that illuminates the Stone Arch Bridge and downtown skyline.
Insider Tip: Gold Medal Park offers elevated views away from the main crowds.
Make It A Trip: Explore the Chain of Lakes with a kayak rental, visit the Mall of America, and take in a Twins game at Target Field.
Nearby KOAs:
Minneapolis Northwest KOA Journey
Minneapolis Southwest KOA Holiday
9. Dallas-Fort Worth, TX – Addison Kaboom Town!
This small Dallas suburb hosts one of the most impressive fireworks shows in the nation, drawing over 500,000 visitors. The celebration takes place on July 3rd (note: not July 4) and features a vintage air show featuring World War II aircraft along with a meticulously choreographed 30-minute fireworks spectacular.
Insider Tip: Addison Circle Park gets extremely crowded. Consider watching from one of the many restaurant patios in the area that offer rooftop viewing (but typically, reservations have to be made months in advance).
Make It A Trip: Visit the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, catch a Rangers game, or spend a day at Six Flags Over Texas.
Nearby KOAs:
Dallas/Arlington KOA Holiday
10. Atlantic City, NJ – Tropicana Fireworks
Atlantic City offers weekly fireworks throughout summer, but the July 4th display is particularly magnificent. The boardwalk comes alive with spectators as fireworks burst over the Atlantic Ocean.
Insider Tip: Steel Pier offers unique views, or head to Ventnor or Margate beaches for a less- crowded experience.
Make It A Trip: Try your luck at the casinos, stroll the historic boardwalk, and enjoy fresh seafood before watching the sky light up over the ocean.
Nearby KOAs:
Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA Holiday
11. San Francisco, CA – Fourth of July Fireworks
The City by the Bay puts on not one but two major fireworks displays: one at Fisherman’s Wharf and another at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. The fog (locals call it “Karl”) adds a mystical element as fireworks burst through the mist.
Insider Tip: Skip the crowded piers and head to Bernal Heights Park for panoramic views of both displays.
Make It A Trip: Ride a cable car through the hilly streets, visit Alcatraz Island, and sample sourdough bread bowls filled with clam chowder at the Ferry Building.
Nearby KOAs:
San Francisco North/Petaluma KOA Resort
12. Portland, OR – Waterfront Blues Festival Fireworks
Portland’s five-day Waterfront Blues Festival culminates on July 4th with one of the Pacific Northwest’s largest fireworks displays over the Willamette River, synchronized to blues music.
Insider Tip: Set up at the Eastbank Esplanade for views of the fireworks with Portland’s skyline and bridges as a backdrop.
Make It A Trip: Explore Washington Park’s rose gardens, browse Powell’s City of Books (the world’s largest independent bookstore), and sample craft beers at the city’s countless microbreweries.
Nearby KOAs:
Cascade Locks/Portland East KOA Holiday
13. Savannah, GA – Savannah Waterfront Fireworks
This historic Southern city hosts a charming July 4th celebration on River Street along the Savannah River. The display illuminates the cobblestone streets and Spanish moss-draped oak trees.
Insider Tip: Hutchinson Island offers excellent views away from the main crowds, with the historic waterfront as your backdrop.
Make It A Trip: Take a ghost tour through America’s most haunted city, stroll through 22 historic squares, and enjoy fresh seafood at riverfront restaurants.
Nearby KOAs:
Savannah South KOA Holiday
14. Seattle, WA – Seafair Summer Fourth
Seattle’s Lake Union becomes the focal point for the city’s July 4th celebration, with multiple barges launching synchronized fireworks that reflect beautifully in the water. The Space Needle provides a dramatic backdrop as colorful bursts illuminate the skyline.
Insider Tip: Gas Works Park gets incredibly crowded. For a more relaxed experience, rent a kayak and watch from the water, or head to South Lake Union Park.
Make It A Trip: Visit Pike Place Market in the morning to watch fish-throwing vendors, take a ride to the top of the Space Needle, and explore the fascinating Museum of Pop Culture.
Nearby KOAs:
Burlington/Anacortes KOA Holiday
Concrete/Grandy Creek KOA Holiday
15. New Orleans, LA – Go 4th on the River
The Big Easy celebrates Independence Day with “Dueling Barges” on the Mississippi River, with two synchronized fireworks shows launched simultaneously. The French Quarter and riverfront come alive with jazz, food vendors, and the distinctive New Orleans party atmosphere.
Insider Tip: Watch from Crescent Park for stunning views without the main Woldenberg Park crowds.
Make It A Trip: Enjoy beignets at Café du Monde, take a swamp tour, and explore the Garden District’s historic mansions before the evening’s pyrotechnic display.
Nearby KOAs:
16. San Diego, CA – Big Bay Boom
California’s largest July 4th fireworks display features four barges spread across San Diego Bay, creating a spectacular 360-degree show that illuminates the harbor. With perfect weather almost guaranteed, it’s no wonder this show draws half a million spectators yearly.
Insider Tip: Shelter Island offers excellent viewing without the massive crowds at downtown locations.
Make It A Trip: Visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo, spend a day at Coronado Beach, and explore the historic Gaslamp Quarter.
Nearby KOAs:
San Diego Metro KOA Resort
17. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada – Lights on the Lake
Ranked as one of the country’s top fireworks displays, this July 4th show lights up the crystal-clear alpine lake with stunning reflections that seem to double the spectacle. The surrounding mountains create a natural amphitheater effect.
Insider Tip: Nevada Beach on the east shore offers spectacular views away from the main crowds, with the added bonus of the silhouetted Sierra Nevada mountains.
Make It A Trip: Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, or paddleboarding during the day, then grab dinner at a lakeside restaurant before the evening show.
Nearby KOAs:
Lake Tahoe KOA Journey
18. Anchorage, AK – July 4th Festival and Fireworks
Celebrate Independence Day with the midnight sun! Anchorage’s fireworks are particularly unique because they begin at 11:00 PM in twilight conditions due to Alaska’s northern latitude. The extended dusk creates a magical backdrop for pyrotechnics.
Insider Tip: Watch from the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail for views over Cook Inlet with the chance to spot wildlife.
Make It A Trip: Take a wildlife cruise in Kenai Fjords National Park, visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center, and try locally caught salmon at downtown restaurants.
Nearby KOAs:
Palmer/Anchorage North KOA Journey
19. Gatlinburg, TN – Midnight Parade and Fireworks
Gatlinburg’s celebration is unique! It begins with the “First Fourth of July Parade in the Nation” at 12:01 AM and ends with a spectacular fireworks show near the Space Needle downtown. The Great Smoky Mountains provide a stunning backdrop.
Insider Tip: The Gatlinburg SkyBridge offers premium viewing (for a fee) with unobstructed mountain views.
Make It A Trip: Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park, ride the Gatlinburg Sky Lift, and sample moonshine at local distilleries between the morning parade and evening fireworks.
Nearby KOAs:
Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Holiday
Townsend/Great Smokies KOA Holiday
20. Denver, CO – Independence Eve at Civic Center Park
With the Rocky Mountains and the Denver skyline as a backdrop, this celebration on July 3rd includes a light show projected onto the City and County Building, patriotic music from the Colorado Symphony, and a fireworks display that complements the mountain setting.
Insider Tip: Bring a blanket and set up on the west steps of the State Capitol for an elevated view.
Make It A Trip: Take a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, explore the trendy RiNo Art District, or tour the U.S. Mint.
Nearby KOAs:
Denver West/Central City KOA Holiday
Denver East/Strasburg KOA Holiday
Canada’s Spectacular Northern Lights
21. Ottawa, Ontario – Canada Day on Parliament Hill
Canada’s capital hosts the country’s largest Canada Day (July 1st) celebration, with a full day of performances culminating in a breathtaking fireworks display over the Ottawa River with the Parliament Buildings and Peace Tower illuminated in the background.
Insider Tip: Major’s Hill Park offers excellent views with smaller crowds than Parliament Hill itself.
Make It A Trip: Tour the stunning Parliament buildings, visit the National Gallery of Canada, and take a boat cruise on the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Nearby KOAs:
Cardinal/KOA South KOA Holiday
Renfrew/Ottawa West KOA Journey
22. Toronto, Ontario – Canada Day at Ashbridges Bay
Toronto celebrates July 1st with one of the largest fireworks displays in the country, launched over Lake Ontario. The show features over 2,000 individual explosions in a 25-minute spectacle.
Insider Tip: Tommy Thompson Park provides a quieter viewing experience with panoramic views of both the fireworks and the illuminated CN Tower.
Make It A Trip: Visit the CN Tower, explore diverse neighborhoods like Kensington Market, and enjoy a Blue Jays game at Rogers Centre.
Nearby KOAs:
Niagara Falls North/Lewiston KOA Journey
Niagara Falls KOA Holiday
23. Vancouver, British Columbia – Honda Celebration of Light
This international fireworks competition spans three nights over two weeks (late July to early August), with different countries competing for pyrotechnic supremacy over English Bay. Synchronized music and narration enhance the experience.
Insider Tip: Kitsilano Beach offers excellent views without the massive crowds at English Bay Beach.
Make It A Trip: Explore Stanley Park by bike, visit Granville Island Public Market, and take a day trip to stunning Whistler Mountain.
Nearby KOAs:
Lynden/Bellingham KOA Journey
24. Montreal, Quebec – L’International des Feux Loto-Québec
This prestigious international fireworks competition runs from late June through early August at La Ronde amusement park. Each participating country presents a 30-minute pyromusical show choreographed to music.
Insider Tip: Jacques-Cartier Bridge closes to traffic during the shows and becomes an excellent viewing platform.
Make It A Trip: Wander through Old Montreal’s cobblestone streets, climb Mount Royal for panoramic city views, and sample Montreal’s famous bagels and poutine.
Nearby KOA:
Montreal South KOA Journey
25. Niagara Falls, Ontario – Falls Fireworks Series
The thundering falls become even more spectacular when illuminated by nightly summer fireworks – the mist from the falls creates an ethereal effect as the colors burst overhead and reflect in the water. Shows occur daily from late June through early September at around 10 PM local time, with special extended shows on Canada Day (July 1st) and July 4th.
Insider Tip: Queen Victoria Park offers front-row viewing, but for a unique perspective, watch from the Skylon Tower observation deck.
Make It A Trip: Take a Hornblower cruise to the base of the falls, explore Clifton Hill’s attractions, and visit the butterfly conservatory during the day.
Nearby KOAs:
Niagara Falls KOA Holiday
26. Calgary, Alberta – GlobalFest International Fireworks Festival
This multicultural festival in mid-to-late August features pyromusical shows from different countries. The OneWorld Festival during the day celebrates cultural diversity with pavilions, food, and performances.
Insider Tip: The fireworks show happens over Elliston Park’s lake, with reflections enhancing the display. Bring a blanket and arrive early to claim a lakeside spot.
Make It A Trip: Visit the Calgary Tower, explore Heritage Park Historical Village, and take a day trip to nearby Banff National Park.
Nearby KOA:
Drumheller/Dinosaur Trail KOA Holiday
27. Halifax, Nova Scotia – Natal Day Fireworks
While Halifax hosts Canada Day fireworks, the city’s Natal Day celebration on the first Monday in August features an even more impressive display over Halifax Harbour, reflecting beautifully in the water.
Insider Tip: Ferry from Halifax to Dartmouth just before the show for unique on-water viewing.
Make It A Trip: Explore the historic Citadel, stroll the charming waterfront boardwalk, and enjoy fresh lobster at local restaurants.
Nearby KOAs:
Halifax West KOA
28. Québec City, Quebec – Grands Feux Loto-Québec
This international fireworks competition runs throughout August, with displays launched over the St. Lawrence River on Wednesday and Saturday evenings. The historic Château Frontenac and Old Quebec provide a stunning backdrop.
Insider Tip: Dufferin Terrace offers premium views, or cross to Lévis on the south shore for a panoramic perspective of the fireworks with Quebec City’s skyline.
Make It A Trip: Wander through North America’s only walled city north of Mexico, visit the spectacular Montmorency Falls, and enjoy authentic Quebecois cuisine.
Nearby KOAs:
Quebec City KOA Holiday
29. Victoria, British Columbia – Symphony Splash and Fireworks
Taking place on the first Sunday in August, this unique event features the Victoria Symphony performing on a floating stage in the Inner Harbour, with a fireworks finale synchronized to Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” complete with cannon fire.
Insider Tip: Reserve a spot along the causeway early in the day, or book a dinner reservation at a restaurant with harbour views.
Make It A Trip: Visit the legendary Butchart Gardens, have afternoon tea at the Empress Hotel, and explore the Royal BC Museum.
Nearby KOA:
Burlington/Anacortes KOA Holiday
Lynden/Bellingham KOA Journey
30. Winnipeg, Manitoba – Canada Day at The Forks
The Forks, where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers meet, hosts one of Canada’s largest Canada Day celebrations culminating in a spectacular fireworks display on July 1st. The Canadian Museum for Human Rights provides a stunning modern backdrop.
Insider Tip: The Esplanade Riel pedestrian bridge offers unique views of both the fireworks and their reflections in the rivers.
Make It A Trip: Tour the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, explore the historic Exchange District, and enjoy the vibrant food scene at The Forks Market.
Nearby KOAs:
Winnipeg West KOA Journey
This summer, embark on a journey to one or more of these stunning fireworks destinations. Gather beneath a twinkling sky, alive with dazzling bursts of color, for an extraordinary experience that will light up your heart!
Leslie is a travel writer, copywriter, and web designer who gets butterflies from telling stories through words and visuals.
Her voice comes from a place filled with passion, dreams, and lots of sugar. “Cake over steak” is her go-to motto.
With over 10 years of experience in crafting words, and years of embarking on travels that have taken this Montana girl to some incredible places, Leslie loves the adventures of both body and mind her writing takes her on.
To see what Leslie’s up to in the writing and design world, visit her website here.
