Massive celebrations all across the country to celebrate this very special Independence Day

The United States only turns 250 once, and communities nationwide are planning celebrations. While the America250 National Organization is coordinating thousands of events, fireworks displays, and local festivals across all 50 states, a handful of destinations are going all out with once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Visit America250.org and use its event locator to discover events happening near you.

NEW YORK CITY
Maritime parade, fireworks, and more
NYC will be celebrating the semiquincentennial with multiple events, including the Sail4th 250 maritime parade taking place from July 3 to 8. More than 30 tall ships and 50 naval vessels from around the world will sail up the Hudson River, accompanied by a US Navy Blue Angels aerial review. Public deck tours of the ships will be available starting July 5th across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and New Jersey. There will also be the Time Square Ball Drop on July 3, which is the first time in history that it’s been lowered outside of New Year’s Eve. History buffs can also view the Declaration of Independence from July 1 to 3 at the New York Public Library.

Washington DC
Great American State Fair
Great American State Fair is a 16-day national exposition from June 25 to July 10, spanning from the US Capitol to the Washington Monument, at the National Mall (Between Constitution & Independence Ave). The celebration will showcase all 56 states and territories in a single World’s Fair-scale event. This celebration will feature live music, carnival rides, and dozens of hands-on partner activities. There will be special theme days like “Land & Prosperity” and “Military & Veterans Appreciation Day.” See washington.org/event/greatamerican-state-fair for details. Visit on July 4 for a massive Independence Day celebration with fireworks, live performances, and more.

PHILADELPHIA
Fireworks, Concerts, and More
The birthplace of America not only has countless historic sites to visit, like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, they also really know how to throw a party. As part of “Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest,” there will be a celebration on June 27, with a high energy concert at 8 p.m. and a fireworks show on the Delaware River at 9:30 p.m. Go early to enjoy roller skating, rides, arcade games, boardwalk eats and waterfront drinks. Fireworks can be viewed along the Waterfront at Race Street Pier, Penn’s Landing, Spruce Street Harbor Park, Pier 68, and Washington Avenue Pier, as well as the Moshulu, Keating’s Rope & Anchor, the Spirit of Philadelphia, Independence Seaport Museum, Fringe Arts, Dave & Busters, Morgan’s Pier, Liberty Point, and Rivers Casino.

Then on July 2, be sure to participate in the “Red, White And Blue To Do” for a day-long celebration complete with a block party, parade, and other events. Wawa will also be hosting its “Wawa Welcome America” celebration from June 19 to July 4, with massive festival showcases, events like concerts, free museum days, parades, and six days of fireworks. The celebration will feature performances by awardwinning superstars Idina Menzel, Eve, and Kirk Franklin.