The Fourth of July is usually one of the best weekends of the summer. Whether you like to sit back and enjoy a flashy fireworks display, host a party or take part in your hometown’s local parade, there are plenty of options for celebrating. We rounded up some of the most notable patriotic events going on all around the state, perfect for your entire family:
Fireworks Shows
Nothing says “Fourth of July” quite like a sparkling spectacle in the sky. There are plenty of picture-perfect backdrops for fireworks around the state (see here for a full list), but some you won’t want to miss are:
- East Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids: July 4, John Collins Park
- Grand Haven 4th of July Fireworks, Grand Haven: July 4, Lynne Sherwood Waterfront Stadium
- Lansing 4th of July Fireworks, Lansing: July 4, Adado Riverfront Park
- Traverse City 4th of July Fireworks, Traverse City: July 4, launched over West Grand Traverse Bay
- Marquette 4th of July Parade & Fireworks Celebration, Marquette: July 4, launched from the Lower Harbor Ore Dock
Parades
Gather with your neighbors and watch performers, bands and community leaders march through town. One to see: the parade in Ludington, which has been going strong since 1874. You can also head to downtown Plymouth for the town’s annual 4th of July Good Morning USA Parade or give the Frankfort Fourth of July Celebration a try, with a parade in the morning and a sand castle sculpture contest later at Frankfort Beach.
Fun Runs
For a more fitness-friendly way to celebrate Independence Day, check out one of the several fun runs going on around Michigan. Downtown Ann Arbor will host the 2019 Firecracker 5K and Mile Fun Run on July 4. These runs take a patriotic start at the corner of Fourth and Liberty streets and end with an all-American hot dog eating contest. For another great run, head to Holland for the July 4th Celebration Freedom Fun Run. The family-friendly event takes the patriotism up a notch by encouraging festive red, white and blue gear. The Stars, Stripes and Splatter 5K in Acme on June 29 has you (literally) covered with Fourth of July fun. It’s a USA-themed color run that includes special prizes, an inflatable obstacle course and a party afterwards.
With so much going on around Michigan, you’re sure to have a fun-filled Fourth of July weekend. However you choose to celebrate, remember to do so safely. Happy Fourth!
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