Firework shows are always beautiful, but the shows in the following cities put our local displays to shame.  Although some firework shows have been cancelled due to extremely dry conditions, the following extravagant shows are once again open this year:

Washington D.C.

There are not many cities where Independence Day has a more true meaning than our nation’s capital.  In fact, Thomas Jefferson hosted the first ever official Fourth of July celebration on the lawn of his estate more than 200 years ago.  Now, fireworks soar over the Washington D.C. skyline each year.

New York, NY

Many have heard of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, but unless you are familiar with the area, you may have no idea that Macy’s puts on the annual firework show as well.  The Macy’s firework show is like none other, as they use about three times more shells than any other fireworks show in the country.  Located between 24^th and 50^th streets, 75,000 pounds of fireworks are launched off six barges over the Hudson River.

Boston, MA

Giving Washington D.C. a run for its money in the “Historical City” category is Boston, Massachusetts.  In the city where Paul Revere saw two lanterns at the top of the Old North Church, he set off on his “Midnight Ride” to alert the colonists that the British were invading, “One if by land, two if by sea.” Those lanterns are now replaced with a fantastic firework display.  It is estimated that more than 200,000 people line the shores of the Charles River to watch the display.  The Boston Harborfest starts at the end of June, and continues all the way until the Fourth of July, celebrating the cities significant colonial heritage.

Addison, TX

In Addison, just north of Dallas, “Kaboom Town” as it is called attracts nearly half a million people each year.  The fireworks show is so impressive that it can be seen anywhere in the 16,000 person town.  An air show at the Addison Airport starts off the event before the half hour firework show begins.

San Francisco, CA

In the Bay Area, the only true option for a fireworks show is heading down to Pier 39 or Fisherman’s Wharf in San Fran.  The day long event starts with live bands at 1:00 p.m., until the fireworks show at 9:30 p.m.  If you are real lucky, you can sign up in advance to cruise along on the Alcatraz trip after dark, a prime viewing location as the fireworks light-up the Golden Gate Bridge in the background.

New Orleans, LA

Even through Mardi Gras is not is session, New Orleans is still as hopping as ever.  The firework show is not just for enjoyment, but for competition.  Two barges battle it out by lighting up the night sky over the gulf coast.

St. Louis, MO

One of the best in the Midwest can be taken in at the “Gateway to the West.”  For over 30 years, the annual Fair Saint Louis has featured a three day long event.  This includes top national musicians, Independence Day runs, a parade, plenty of activities for the kids, and an air show.  The air show includes military jets, stunt planes, parachutes, and other aircraft.  The two air shows last for a combined three hours.  Oh, and did we mention, this festival all takes place right underneath the arch?

Whether you are located on the East Coast, West Coast, down South, or in the Midwest, there is a phenomenal fireworks show to be had.  Although you can always catch these shows televised, television does not do them justice.  If you live anywhere near one of these locations, pack up the car and take a trip to one of these magnificent shows.  You will not be disappointed!

No matter where you go see fireworks, please remember what Fourth of July truly stands for, our great Nation’s Independence!

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