Fireworks are probably one of the most beloved ways to celebrate the 4th of July.  The tradition of watching fireworks and attending parades goes at least 100 years and when they are combined with a festival or concert, it helps make the holiday even more exciting.  Since this is a time of year when schools are out, traveling to watch the fireworks is a fun activity for family fun that also helps to generate more interest in our country's history. Go and visit your favorite city with an impressive fireworks display or perhaps take a trip to a new city you've never visited before.  In any case, it will be an exciting bit of fun. 

1. New York City

Many TV viewers tune in to watch the Macy's Firework Spectacular in New York City, easily one of the most popular July 4th events in the country.  About 2 million people gather to watch the fireworks, which are set off over the Hudson River and easily visible from several Upper West Side locations.  The fireworks display is professionally choreographed with its own unique score.  The display lasts for about 25 minutes in total.  Several popular artists provide great entertainment ranging from R&B to country music, making the event one of the best ways to spend the 4th in New York or anywhere else.  This is a fun way to experience one of America's most fascinating cities.  Though with anything involving New York plan ahead! 

2. Boston

Boston has one of the most famous 4th of July fireworks displays around and has been an inspiration to many smaller cities and their own celebrations.  With an attendance of over half a million, it is one of the biggest and most famous 4th of July events in the county.  The impressive fireworks display over the Charles River lasts for half an hour and features a mixture of patriotic and popular music.  Enjoy the sounds of the Boston Pops, as they perform a number of longtime favorites, including the 1812 Overture.  Church bells are rung and howitzers are fired during the performance of the 1812 Overture and are timed to the dramatic finish.  

3. Addison, TX

Kaboom Town! in Addison, TX is in the Greater Dallas area.  Although it initially started out as a smaller celebration, it is now very well-known in the region.  It is one of the better-attended shows, attracting over 500,000 people.  The fireworks display is half an hour long and choreographed, with a mixture of new and old favorites included in the score.  Live music is performed on the main stage, featuring both popular local performers and the Dallas Wind Orchestra.  The Addison Airport Air Show takes place the same day, including flyovers from vintage warplanes that date back to World War II.  Food vendors provide refreshments during the events to keep everyone satisfied.  The Addison area is also home to several excellent restaurants that offer fireworks viewing parties. 

4. Washington, DC

Washington, DC has fireworks at the Reflecting Pool area, which offers great viewing opportunities from the National Mall for about half a million people.  There are several other great places to watch the fireworks which are all within walking distance of the Reflecting Pool.  The display lasts around 17 minutes in total, with some impressive fireworks used during that time. There are several fun events that take place all day long leading up to the fireworks, providing plenty of fun for the entire family such as a parade which takes place on Constitution Ave in the early afternoon.  The Capitol Fourth concert by the National Symphony Orchestra lasts for an hour and a half, overlapping with the fireworks display and providing exciting music from some of the most talented performing artists.  Besides the fireworks display take some time to learn about the fascinating history and monuments found in and around the DC area. 

5. Atlantic City

The Atlantic City Fireworks Display is a popular alternative to going into New York City to celebrate the 4th of July.  About 200,000 people typically attend, making it a good choice for anyone in the coastal regions.  The fireworks show lasts 20 minutes, with the fireworks being shot off in 4 different locations near the marina, beaches and casinos.  Anyone who intends to attend this celebration is urged to arrive early in order to have a good viewing spot, as people from all around the Jersey Shore attend.  This is an excellent way to celebrate the 4th and relax in one of the best beach areas on the East Coast, especially for families with younger children.

Good luck and enjoy the great fireworks wherever you decide to watch the celebration of our nation's birth.

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