Every Fourth of July, you’re guaranteed a party in the United States, but for those who like to plan ahead, next year will be the 250th anniversary of American Independence, and so in 2026 the traditional Independence Day celebrations will scaled up like never before. Here’s a guide to the best places to start researching for your clients.
Alabama
“One of Birmingham’s top spots to celebrate the Fourth of July is at Vulcan Park & Museum, home of the world’s largest cast iron statue. Its iconic annual fireworks show lights up the city with over 2,500 effects set to a patriotic soundtrack, an unforgettable summer tradition with stunning panoramic views."
Sara Hamlin, vice-president of tourism, Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau
Arizona
“The best place to celebrate Independence Day while in Tucson is to view the “A” Mountain Fireworks Celebration. Sentinel Peak, also known as “A” Mountain, is a prominent landmark in Tucson and is in the Tucson Mountains south-west of downtown Tucson. For the best experience, head to the Tucson Convention Center parking lot which serves as an official viewing area. There, you’ll enjoy live music, food vendors and drinks as you wait for the show to begin."
Gail Godbey, director of tourism, Visit Tucson
California
“Sports fans should head to Dodger Stadium, the home of the 2024 Major League Baseball World Champions, on Independence Day. After enjoying a Dodger Dog and watching the game, spectators can either stay in their seats or head down to sit on the pitch to watch the epic firework display after the match.”
Francine Sheridan, regional vice-president, Europe & ME, Los Angeles Tourism
“South Lake Tahoe remains one of the most iconic destinations to celebrate the Fourth of July. Festivities feature vibrant floats, live music, and patriotic flair – all concluding with the nationally renowned Lights on the Lake fireworks.”
Juraj Sojka, director of tourism, Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority
“Watch the biggest Fourth of July parade west of the Mississippi River – local businesses, classic cars, rising surf champions, the Huntington Beach High School cheerleaders, the Huntington Beach Mayor and more put on a show for residents and visitors alike. The 2.5-mile route starts on Pacific Coast Highway along Huntington Beach’s beaches, past the iconic Huntington Beach Pier and into Downtown Huntington Beach.”
Mark Meredith, UK & Ireland trade director, Visit Huntington Beach
Colorado
“Denver features spectacular fireworks at Civic Center Park, live music and family-friendly events. With its stunning mountain backdrop, festive atmosphere and strong patriotic spirit, Colorado’s capital offers an ideal blend of natural beauty and urban buzz for Independence Day.”
Flavia Light, chief tourism development officer, Visit Denver
DC
“Washington DC is one of the most iconic places to celebrate Independence Day, with unforgettable landmarks, large-scale events and immersive patriotic experiences. Watch the fireworks explode over the Washington Monument and reflecting pool is an awe-inspiring sight and uniquely DC!”
Julie Devine, Vacations to America
“There’s no better place to celebrate the US’s independence than the capital itself, Washington, DC. Our iconic landmarks set the stage for one of America’s largest fireworks displays, while free events like the Declaration of Independence reading, Independence Day Parade and the Capitol Fourth Concert create a uniquely American experience.”
Elliott L Ferguson, II, president and CEO of Destination DC
Florida
“Florida Keys celebrates the Fourth of July, with almost every island having its own celebration from lively beach parties and parades to spectacular fireworks displays. Key West is known for its full-day celebration, including a parade, live music, and a Key Lime Festival including the legendary pie eating championship!”
Anita Skibiel, senior account director, Visit Florida Keys
“Kissimmee Old Town’s Fourth of July extravaganza comes alive with thunderous roars at the Friday Night Muscle Car Show, featuring show-quality cars dating from 1964, alongside meticulously restored hot rods and classics, a rolling museum of America’s golden automotive era. A free fireworks display illuminates the night in a breathtaking tribute to liberty.”
Jo Piani, UK & Ireland trade director, Experience Kissimmee
“Have a ‘bricktastic’ burst of fun with Red, White & BOOM! at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort 4-5 July! Enjoy extended Park hours to ride your favourite rides again and again, groove at an awesome DJ Dance party, and watch an unforgettable firework show that explodes into 3D LEGO® bricks.”
Margaret Henriksson, UK & Ireland Representative, Visit Central Florida
“St. Pete-Clearwater is full of local fun on Fourth of July with fun runs, hot dog eating contests and fireworks across America’s Best Beaches. You can enjoy the fireworks shows on Treasure Island beach, across the Clearwater Harbour, or over the iconic St. Pete Pier, just to name a few.”
Brian Lowack, chief executive and president of Visit St. Pete-Clearwater
“The community spirit of the annual Sanibel Island parade always makes an incredible event, but the festivities on Fort Myers Beach aren’t to be missed. A day of celebrations culminating in live music and fireworks bursting over the Gulf; there’s no more spectacular display!”
Tamara Pigott, executive director of Visit Fort Myers
“As home to eight of the world’s top theme parks, Orlando’s Fourth of July firework displays aren’t just a celebration – they’re a full-scale production.”
Phil White, Visit Orlando’s travel industry sales director, EMEA
