Whether you’re going for a low-key celebration or a full-on summer vacation, one of the best things about the 4th of July is how quickly it can become a memorable and enjoyable event.
Indeed, an increasing number of Americans are taking to the roads or the sky to celebrate: Last year’s July 4th weekend saw a record-breaking 70.9 million visitors, a 5% rise over the previous year and a definite indication that the demand for Independence Day vacations is rising.
Why do we celebrate 4th of July?
In honor of the Declaration of Independence’s adoption on July 4, 1776, we celebrate July 4th, commonly called Independence Day. The United States of America became a sovereign nation on this day when the Thirteen American Colonies proclaimed their independence from British domination.
What is on the 4th of July? Well, Thomas Jefferson was the primary drafter of the Declaration, which boldly asserted the colonies’ right to self-governance. It established the groundwork for fundamental American ideals such as freedom, democracy, and liberty. The spirit of solidarity and resistance that influenced the formation of the country is symbolized by the Fourth of July.
So, do you want to know the best 4th of July events near me? Here we have included the top events and fireworks, along with our top vacation spots, to help you make the most of your holiday.
Happy 4th of July!
1. New York City
The first place to enjoy the 4th of July fireworks is none other than the city that never sleeps – NYC. You will find multiple places near the Hudson River that allow you to check out the celebrations. Manhattan and New Jersey are also not left behind. During this day which is one of the biggest Independence Day festivities in the nation, hundreds of fireworks shells will be launched into the sky, lighting up the night in New York City with lights and sounds. Unexpectedly, there isn’t a commemorative parade in New York City. Long Island and Fire Island offer beach activities, barbecues, and fireworks celebrations for day-trippers who want to get away from the city. You can find a lot of direct buses that reach New York City from different destinations. Check them out here.
2. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
We all know that the Declaration of Independence was signed by America’s founding fathers in the City of Brotherly Love. Yes, we are certainly talking about Philadelphia. So you know that the people there take the Fourth of July very seriously. The festivities start on June 19 and end in a holiday weekend full of patriotism after a series of free museum days, outdoor movies, and live entertainment.
Attend a free event at Carpenters’ Hall, the National Historic Landmark that is celebrating the 250th anniversary of the First Continental Congress, which established the groundwork for American independence in 1774, on July 2. See the “Salute To Independence Day Parade” on July 4th, which begins at 11 a.m. Ne-Yo and Kesha 2024 will perform live on the Parkway at 7 p.m., followed by – you guessed it – 4th of July fireworks.
3. Boston, Massachusetts
Relics from the Revolutionary War, such as Bunker Hill and Paul Revere’s grave, are inevitable when strolling around Boston’s cobblestone streets. This indicates that Beantown receives a lot of attention during the Fourth of July, and the city meets the hype.
The activities start on June 30 at Downtown Crossing (DTX), where guests may enjoy music from the 215th Army Band, browse an Arts and Crafts market, and interact with personnel and reenactors from the USS Constitution, the oldest floating ship in the world. On July 1st, the DTX celebration will continue with free concerts before the Harborfest fireworks show at 9 p.m.
The Declaration of Independence is read at the Old State House, which was constructed in 1713, after a short parade from City Hall Plaza on July 4. The Boston Pops’ yearly Fourth of July Spectacular, held at the Hatch Memorial Shell on the Charles River Esplanade, marks the end of the day. As fireworks and cannons illuminate the city, stay for the thrilling performance of the 1812 Overture.
4. Washington, D.C.
The capital of the country will undoubtedly dazzle with a number of July Fourth celebrations. The Willard Ardbeg Annual Independence Day BBQ and Block Party, a summertime event at the Willard InterContinental’s Café du Parc Terrace, is among the more noteworthy options. Enjoy a block party-style celebration of America’s birthday in Washington, D.C., complete with a specially constructed Ardberg smoking trailer, burgers, hot dogs, traditional side dishes, ice pops, and specialty drinks. One of the best spots in town to watch the National Mall fireworks is on the famous property. To guarantee your place at the grill and the performance, make a reservation.
Don’t miss the National Independence Day Parade on Constitution Avenue while you’re in town. It includes drill teams, bands, drum and fife corps, dignitaries, floats, enormous balloons, and celebrities. Visit the National Mall, reserve a Potomac Riverboat, hang out at a rooftop bar, or ride your bike up the Mount Vernon Trail for more options to see the fireworks display.
5. Atlantic City
Although Atlantic Resort is most famous for its glitzy casinos and famous boardwalk, this seaside resort comes alive with fireworks and beachside festivities throughout the 4th of July celebrations. It’s the perfect retreat for people looking for both excitement and convenience, with a direct OurBus connection from Philadelphia to Atlantic City.
The entire holiday week is filled with festivities in Atlantic City, which include anything from stunning firework displays that reflect off the Atlantic Ocean to beachfront concerts. In the days leading up to the Fourth of July, entertainers take the stage at Kennedy Plaza, just off the Boardwalk, where the festivities begin with live music and entertainment.
The city goes all out on the Fourth of July:
- With family-friendly games, DJs, and traditional beachfront fare like funnel cakes and ice lemonades, the Independence Day Beach Party is held close to the Tropicana and Caesars resorts.
- One of the most breathtaking fireworks displays in New Jersey lights up the heavens as the sun sets. The best place to see the spectacle is from the beach or boardwalk close to the Tropicana, where local radio stations play a special musical score that is timed with the pyrotechnics.
- Atlantic City provides the ideal fusion of traditional American fare, such as cotton candy, Ferris wheel rides, and beachfront fries, with the excitement of a thriving nightlife.
How To Avoid Traffic On 4th of July Events?
With so many travelers hitting the road for Independence Day, traffic and travel delays can put a serious damper on your plans. To avoid the biggest bottlenecks, one of the most obvious things you can do is consider traveling a day early or later than the typical holiday rush and try to hit the road during off-peak hours—early morning or late evening. Booking flights during less busy time slots, like early morning departures, can also reduce your chances of delays.
If you’re looking to skip the crowds altogether, why not celebrate somewhere a little more low-key? Places like Lake Quinault in Washington’s Olympic National Forest or Door County, Wisconsin offer peaceful backdrops, small-town parades, and plenty of natural beauty—perfect for a laid-back July 4th that still feels special, without the gridlock. We do not have direct routes for now, but eventually, we will add all the best places you can visit to know why to celebrate 4th of July.
Now that you have some ideas for where to go, what to see, and how to get there on time for 4th of July this year, get planning! We wish you a safe and happy 4th of July wherever your travels take you.
Celebrate 4th of July with OurBus!
So, what is on the 4th of July? It’s a celebration of freedom, independence, and the American spirit that goes beyond fireworks and barbecues. The significance of the Fourth of July dates back to 1776 when the Declaration of Independence established the framework for a country based on freedom, democracy, and self-government.
It is more crucial than ever to avoid traffic jams and parking conflicts as record numbers of Americans hit the roads each year. OurBus provides a dependable, cozy, and stress-free means of transportation, whether you’re going to the beach parties in Atlantic City, the historical parades in Philadelphia, or the fireworks over the Hudson in New York City.
Instead of your travel plans exploding this year, let the fireworks be the only thing that does. Reserve your seat in advance to beat the traffic and arrive prepared to enjoy the unique qualities of this nation.
Where will you go on your blue, white, and red journey?
Wherever it is, Happy 4th of July!
No Comments