Best July 4th Celebration Destinations

We already know that states like Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Texas and California are some of the best places to retire, but they also have some of the best July 4^th Celebrations around. With the holiday just around the corner, many people are gearing up for big Independence Day festivities. No matter where you are there’s bound to be something going on, whether it’s in a neighbor’s backyard or in a city’s downtown. We’ve found a few notable celebrations which, if you happen to be in the area or don’t mind taking a trip, you should check out! Happy 4th everyone!

St. Augustine, Florida

Amid the beauty and history of the nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine, you’ll find an enchanting July 4^th Celebration. Fireworks Over the Matanzas begins at 6pm on July 4^th, with a concert by the All Star Orchestra in the Plaza de la Constitution. For two hours you can get your fill of big band and swing music—just bring a lounge chair and get comfy! The big event—the fireworks!—begins at 9:30, and it’s one of the largest fireworks displays on the East Coast. Before the celebration begins or in between the music and fireworks, take a second to explore this historic city. It could end up being more than just your July 4^th destination.

Jekyll Island, Georgia

Celebrate the Fourth on the sands of Jekyll Island, GA—possibly after spending the day enjoying the waves and sunshine. The event starts at sundown, where the sky will be lighted with the colors of fireworks. The best place to view the show is from the Great Dunes Park, so come a little early to avoid traffic and find the perfect spot. While the event itself is free (the fireworks), the daily $6 parking fee does still apply.

Patriots Point, Charleston, South Carolina

If you’re familiar with the July 4^th extravaganza at Patriot’s Point, then you’ll already have bought your Flight Deck ticket, ensuring pretty awesome seats for the fireworks show. But if not, there is still plenty of free seating landside available that is just as good. Make sure you watch for signs posted landside where viewing might be limited. Live music and entertainment will be playing all evening, starting at 5 p.m., and vendors will have food, wine, and beer for sale. There is a $10/vehicle parking fee.

Kaboom Town, Addison, Texas

We all know that things in Texas are big, and that includes their July 4^th celebrations. From 5 p.m. to midnight on Thursday, July 3^rd, people can enjoy food, live music, and historic warplane fly-bys. Even though tickets are no longer available, that shouldn’t discourage you from participating in the celebration. This even can be seen from just about anywhere in the city, and many of Addison’s restaurants and hotels celebrate with watching parties and promotions like special menus, outdoor seating and entertainment.

San Francisco Bay Area, California

For this July 4^th celebration you can expect all day activities on Pier 39. You can catch theater performances of Once, take a wine tasting tour, and much more. But of course, the fireworks are the main event everyone is waiting for. And this celebration has strategically set up their fireworks display to allow for the best viewing all around the area. Two sets of fireworks are synced together so you can watch from Marina Green or Fisherman’s Wharf. One of the best options for viewing, though, is along the northern side of the city. The show will start around 9:30 (or when it’s dark enough), and illuminate the sky for 30 minutes.