The 4th of July is about more than celebrating with fireworks and barbecues—Independence Day is a date to honor the spirit of American independence, both within the U.S. and beyond. Each year, Americans mark this special holiday with grand displays of patriotism, cultural events, and festivities.
For those looking for the best places to celebrate 4th of July, there are countless places around the country and the world, from Washington, D.C. to Mount Rushmore, and Hawaii to Normandy in France. Let’s look at both classic places and unique destinations to reflect and celebrate American around the world.
Washington, D.C., USA
Naturally, the nation’s capital will put on one of the most patriotic 4th of July celebrations in America. Here you can watch fireworks light up the sky over the National Mall with added views of the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial. Expect live performances, military band concerts, and festivals celebrating the spirit of independence too!
Best places to celebrate 4th of July: The National Mall for fireworks, or the “A Capitol Fourth” concert.
Celebrate with us: East Coast USA and Canada
San Francisco, California, USA
Over on the west coast, San Francisco is the place to encounter a laid-back holiday spirit. Expect to see a 4th of July celebration with fireworks over the Bay Area with Fisherman’s Wharf being a major hub of activity. Street performances, local music, and beach parties make it a unique Independence Day celebration.
Best places to celebrate 4th of July: Fisherman’s Wharf and Crissy Field for fireworks and beach festivities.
Celebrate with us: Northern California
Philadelphia, USA
Philadelphia celebrates 4th of July with a week-long festival known as the Wawa Welcome America Festival, filled with concerts, fireworks, and family-friendly events. The city’s historic sites, like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, make it an inspiring place to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence. A calendar of cultural festivities, patriotic parades, and food festivals show off Philly’s vibrant spirit.
Best places to celebrate 4th of July: Independence National Historical Park for festivities and fireworks at Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Celebrate with us: Historic Highlights
Normandy, France
Normandy is a meaningful destination to honor American patriotism on the 4th of July, given its rich World War II history and connection to the Allied liberation. Visitors can commemorate the bravery of American soldiers by exploring sites like Omaha Beach, the Normandy American Cemetery, and various memorials that pay homage to the lasting ties between the U.S. and France.
Best places to celebrate 4th of July: Omaha Beach and the Normandy American Cemetery for remembrance ceremonies, and local towns like Sainte-Mère-Église for historical tours and festivities.
Boston, USA
As a cradle of American independence, Boston is an especially meaningful destination for 4th of July. The city’s Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular features live performances and one of the most impressive fireworks displays in the U.S., set along the Charles River. You can explore Revolutionary War sites and attend historical reenactments for a true Independence Day experience.
Best places to celebrate 4th of July: The Charles River Esplanade for fireworks and the Boston Pops concert.
Celebrate with us: Autumn Colors
New York City, USA
Feel the electric buzz of NYC as it pulls out all the stops on 4th of July. The most iconic event is the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks show, which sees the sky light up with a dazzling display against the city’s skyscrapers. The city that never sleeps will be alive with themed parades, rooftop parties, and festivals.
Best places to celebrate 4th of July: Hudson River waterfront and various rooftop viewing parties around Manhattan.
Celebrate with us: East Coast USA and Canada
Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
For a tropical twist on 4th of July, celebrate America’s independence on the beaches of Hawaii. In Honolulu you can expect to enjoy celebrations with fireworks over the ocean and traditional Hawaiian performances. There also might be beach picnics, oceanfront concerts, and Hawaiian cultural shows.
Best places to celebrate 4th of July: Waikiki Beach for fireworks and Hawaiian entertainment.
Celebrate with us: Hawaii Four Island Adventure
London, UK
While 4th of July is not an official holiday in the UK, London is a buzzing international city with places and spaces to celebrate national holidays around the globe. There’s a strong US community to come together to celebrate American Independence Day at various American-style pubs and restaurants. Look closely and you’ll find live music, themed food, and U.S.-style parties bringing together Americans and Brits.
Best places to celebrate 4th of July: Trafalgar Square and American pubs like The Blues Kitchen for themed events.
Chicago, USA
The best place to celebrate Independence Day in Chicago in 2025 is around Lake Michigan. Here you’ll see a huge fireworks display by the lakefront – a memorable holiday experience with a touch fo Chicago charm. There will also be festivals at Navy Pier and Millennium Park, plus visitors can cruise the Chicago River, attend lively parades, and experience the city’s famous music scene.
Best places to celebrate 4th of July: Navy Pier for fireworks, or the Chicago Riverwalk for a scenic view.
Mount Rushmore, South Dakota, USA
Imagine yourself on the 4th of July standing at Mount Rushmore, watching fireworks light up the faces of America’s most revered presidents. The iconic and patriotic monument will be the base of events such as historical reenactments too, perfect for history lovers. This destination combines America’s natural beauty and the spirit of independence in one place.
Best places to celebrate 4th of July: Mount Rushmore Amphitheater and surrounding areas for patriotic events and fireworks.
That’s our list of the best places to celebrates the 4th of July. Where are you planning to be in 2025? Leave a comment!