The metro Atlanta area will be painted red, white and blue as people commemorate the Fourth of July. It’s a day to observe the country’s independence, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday.
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From music festivals to fireworks displays to sporting events, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Take a look at our annual list of things to do to decide how you’ll celebrate America’s birthday.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Peachtree Road Race
Start your day early with the city’s famous 10K race. The 49th annual event, which usually draws thousands of spectators, will run from Buckhead to Piedmont Park. And be sure to stick around for the awards ceremony.
Various times. July 4. Free. Near Lenox Square mall, 3393 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta. ajc.com/peachtree.
Red, White and Brew
The Georgia Aquarium is hosting a special program for the holiday. Indulge in unlimited beer, cider samples and a yummy barbecue dinner as music blasts throughout the night.
7-10 p.m. July 4, 2018. $65 general admission, $50 members. Georgia Aquarium, 225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta, GA. georgiaaquarium.org.
Fourth in the Park Celebration
Head to this annual event, which will include a parade, free live concerts and an arts and craft show. Attendees can also take part in the museum tours, carnival games and the fireworks finale. The city is expecting 2,000 participants and more than 30,000 spectators.
10 a.m. July 4, 2018. Free. Parade begins at Roswell Street Baptist Church, 774 Roswell St. NE, Marietta, GA. mariettaga.gov.
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4th of July Celebration at Georgia World Congress Center
Centennial Olympic Park is undergoing renovations, so this year’s festivities are near the Georgia World Congress Center Authority. Make your way to the green field and surrounding spaces between the center, Mercedes-Benz Stadium and Philips Arena for live concerts and the fireworks show.
6 p.m. July 4, 2018. Free. Georgia World Congress Center Authority, 285 Andrew Young International Blvd. NW, Atlanta, GA. gwcca.org.
Fantastic Fourth Celebrations at Stone Mountain Park
Stone Mountain Park will celebrate Independence Day all week long with laser shows and fireworks each night. Parkgoers can also catch the High-Flying Dog Show, which will feature K-9 athletes performing acrobatic tricks.
July 1- July 7,2018. Attraction hours, 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; laser show and fireworks, 9:30 p.m. Gate price for all-attraction pass: $34.95. Laser show and fireworks: Free with $20 parking. Stone Mountain Park, 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain, GA. stonemountainpark.com.
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Coca-Cola July 4th Fest at Six Flags Over Georgia
Looking for an adrenaline rush? The amusement park has a host of fun rides for you to try for its five-day Independence Day celebration. And if you bring a can of Coca-Cola, you’ll even have access to select rides and attractions one hour before the park opens. Don’t forget to stay for the fireworks show at dusk; it’s included with admission.
June 30-July 4, 2018. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday; 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Wednesday. $67.99; $47.99 for children under 48 inches tall. Six Flags Over Georgia, 275 Riverside Parkway SW, Austell, GA. sixflags.com/overgeorgia.
Gwinnett Stripers baseball game
It’s the Stripers versus the Norfolk Tides on July 4. Cheer on your favorite players as you munch on popcorn and hot dogs. There will also be a special jersey auction and postgame fireworks.
7:05 p.m. July 4, 2018. $9-$20. Coolray Field, 2500 Buford Drive, Lawrenceville, GA. milb.com.
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Alpharetta 4th of July Fireworks
Bring your friends and family to Alpharetta for an evening of entertainment. The fireworks begin at dusk, and the Alpharetta City Band is also set to perform. There will even be a host of children’s activities for the kids to enjoy.
6-9:30 p.m. July 4, 2018. Free. Alpharetta Community Center Lawn, 1825 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, GA. awesomealpharetta.com.
Decatur’s Pied Piper Parade
This family-friendly affair is making its way back to downtown Decatur. Whether you want to bike, walk or skate, anyone can participate in the parade. However, vehicles must register. A concert will take place right afterward, and the fireworks will start at nightfall.
6 p.m. July 4, 2018. Free. Parade begins at First Baptist Church of Decatur, 308 Clairmont Ave., Decatur, GA. visitdecaturgeorgia.com.
Barbecue & Bluegrass
Come with an appetite, and feast on barbecue and desserts from the Mill Kitchen Restaurant and Bar. You can also dance to tunes from the Smokerise Bluegrass Band, compete in fun games on the lawn or take a hayride.
11 a.m.-4 p.m. July 4, 2018. Free. Barrington Hall, 535 Barrington Drive, Roswell, GA. roswellgov.com.
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