Photo by Adam Bettcher, Courtesy of Meet Minneapolis
What’s the Fourth of July without some spectacular fireworks, good food, and waterfront views? Whether you’re looking for a new Fourth of July tradition with family and friends, or are simply hoping to find some amazing fireworks after a long day of hanging out with your favorite people, these celebrations have something for every family.
Fourth of July Fireworks in Stillwater
Head to Minnesota’s most picturesque small town for an afternoon of ice cream, window shopping, and music from Scott Holt (blues/rock), Heartless (a Heart tribute rock band), and the St. Croix Jazz Orchestra. Fireworks will begin at dusk in Lowell Park. You can view more event and schedule details here.
Delano Fourth of July Celebration
Known as Minnesota’s oldest and largest Fourth of July festivity, Delano’s Fourth of July Celebration spans four days and includes softball and baseball tournaments, a carnival in Central Park, a gigantic parade, and live music from multiple bands (including the Gear Daddies on Thursday night). To top it off, you and your fam can view one of the most stunning fireworks displays around on Saturday, July 6.
Red, White & Boom
A classic for Twin Cities residents, Red, White & Boom is the largest Fourth of July show in Minnesota, thanks to a hefty budget and excellent execution. In the afternoon, families can enjoy fun games and activities, along with good food and refreshing drinks. For the best views of the fireworks, try to catch a spot from the Stone Arch Bridge or Gold Medal Park. Tip: Leave plenty of time for parking and prepare to walk—or carry a child—a long distance.
Farmer’s Fourth of July
Perfect for your little ones, Farmer’s Fourth of July is hosted by the Oliver Kelly Farm staff. Enjoy 19th-century games (town ball is one example) and ice cream samples in the Learning Kitchen. Kids can also make their own kit to fly and take home, and families are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the front lawn while listening to rousing speeches.
Lake Minnetonka Fourth of July
Lake Minnetonka Fourth of July kicks off bright and early with the Firecracker Runs (the 1 mile, 5k and 10k) at 7:30 a.m., leading into other less strenuous activities such as the sand sculpture contest, Water Street kids’ parade and popsicle social, and a free petting zoo. Plus, new this year to the Excelsior Commons is a Ferris wheel—for $166, you and a guest can take a ride at 9:30 p.m. for prime fireworks viewing (plus all proceeds go towards next year’s fireworks fund.) Throughout the day, attendees can enjoy music from DJs, The Legendary Percolators Band, and the 34th Infantry Division “Red Devils” rock band. Fireworks begin at dusk.
St. Cloud Area Fourth of July Fireworks
Settle in at either Hester or Wilson Parks on the Mississippi River for the 73rd consecutive year of incredible fireworks, courtesy the St. Cloud Fireworks committee. At the parks, attendees can enjoy food and beverages from Kettle Licious Kettle Corn, Lazy River Donuts, Beaver Island Brewing, Amazen Graizing, and more—plus, kids can even sign their own name on a copy of the Declaration of Independence. Fireworks begin at 10 p.m. and will be synchronized to a specially selected music soundtrack.
Fourth of July Fireworks in Waconia
Completely sponsored by local businesses and community members, the Waconia Lions present the Lake Waconia Fireworks Festival. Fireworks begin at 10 p.m. and can be best seen from Lake Waconia Regional Park, Lola’s Lakehouse, InTown Marnia, Vandy’s Grill, or from a boat on Lake Waconia.
