July Fourth is perhaps one of the most celebrated American holidays as it yields all things summer and patriotic. With so much going on around Atlanta, it would be nearly impossible to miss out on the fun this Independence Day. Let these local events lead you to the perfect holiday weekend for you and yours:
Fireworks and Family-Friendly Events
See the AJC's complete guide to metro Atlanta fireworks here.
Centennial Olympic Park will host some spectacular, center-city displays starting around 9 p.m. Arrive early to claim your place in the park and enjoy live music. Reference their website for event info, parking tips and regulations.
Georgia Aquarium's "Red, White, and View" offers prime seating for the fireworks at Centennial Olympic Park. Take advantage of the close-up parking deck views as your family enjoys music, games, crafts, dessert and beverage offerings. Tickets are $15 for the kiddos and $20 for adults and senior citizens. Click here for more information.
Turner Field is scheduled to host a sparkly showing with patriotic music following the 7:15 p.m. Braves vs. Phillies game. These fireworks never disappoint, and what's more All-American than Braves baseball and a stadium hot dog?
Lenox Mall will be ready to host attendees of their 56th Annual "Legendary 4th of July" at 6 p.m. Live music and food will kickoff the celebration that will conclude with a truly fabulous firework display set to begin around 9:40 p.m. Click here for specifics.
Lanier Islands is no stranger to summer fun. Independence Day is another opportunity to enjoy the sand, sun and water at Sunset Cove. They'll have music at the Big Beach stage among their regular fun activities and a special July 4th fireworks showcase starting after dark. The entire holiday weekend lineup can be found here.
Stone Mountain is hosting its "Fantastic Fourth Celebration" throughout the long weekend and will be sure to uphold its reputation as one of the best places to view world-class firework displays. The recently updated laser show will precede the ever-popular firework showing – definitely a bonus! This attraction is very popular, so be sure to get there early and reference their website for tips and information about events throughout the weekend.
The Peachtree Road Race celebrates its 46th year with thousands of participants, volunteers and spectators. This is one of Atlanta's most remarkable traditions, with lots of fun associated with every mile of this famous 10k. Bring your coffee as you set up early to get a good spot along the course spanning from Buckhead to Piedmont Park. Click here for some mile-by-mile info for spectators.
Downtown Decatur hosts an annual "Pied Piper Parade" including all kinds of local patriotic vehicles and displays. The parade ends with a family-friendly event downtown in the square where all can settle-in and enjoy a firework display released from the Dekalb County parking deck at dark.
Chamblee 4thof July Celebration in Keswick Park is a neighborhood event that has something for everyone in this increasingly popular area of town. Stop by the park for the bike parade (a standard kid favorite that begins at Chamblee Middle School), mini train rides, cornhole tournament, live music, food and fun with neighbors. They claim their fireworks can keep up with the big dogs around town. See what you think! Visit the event website to learn more.
The annual Dunwoody 4thof July Parade starts at 9:30 a.m. at All Saints Catholic Church. Set up along Mt. Vernon Road or Dunwoody Village Parkway to take in the sights and sounds as floats, marching bands, animals, and countless other local favorites showing off their red, white, and blue in this popular Atlanta suburb. Parade info and tips can be found here.
The annual 4thin the Park Celebration on Marietta Square is another spectacular suburban event that includes a parade beginning at 10am followed by an all day festival with all the essentials for summer family fun. Fireworks commence at dark.
East Point's 2015 Independence Day Hometown Celebration will be the place for south Fulton County residents to check out. You'll find the party on Main Street across from the East Point MARTA station and East Point City Hall. Local goods for sale, in addition to lots of fun, food and excitement, will be available prior to the 9:30 p.m., music-synchronized fireworks. This website will guide you through all you need to know.
Mall of Georgia has a fun-filled, family oriented evening ready for all to enjoy. Inflatable play equipment and rides for kids, live music, food and a screening of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 will accompany their fireworks set to start around 9:35 p.m. Movie screening will be after the 'works. Event info is available here.
The Children's Museum of Atlanta is hosting a "Meet the Holidays" event that invites area youth to explore and use their creativity as they experience making their very own flag, marching in a parade, singing patriotic tunes and creating an imaginative indoor fireworks display. The kids can enjoy this offering at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m.
21 and Up Events
Georgia Aquarium's "Red, White, and Brew" is a cool reprieve from the summer heat in the Oceans Ballroom at one of Atlanta's most popular attractions. Mingle with your underwater neighbors and the rest of the 21 and up crowd as you enjoy food, live music, samples of local and national beer and more. Head up the parking deck for fantastic Centennial Olympic Park firework views. Click here for ticket and event info.
Red, White, and Booze at Ventanas rooftop overlooking Centennial Olympic Park is for those who want an all-inclusive party experience. Food, drinks, music by DJ Gary Braner and prime firework views can be found at this event. For those on a VIP budget, enjoy an open bar and other exclusive perks for a higher ticket rate.
The 4th of July Extravaganza at Whiskey Blue is another great bar/lounge scene to enjoy the popular fireworks display at Lenox Mall. Your ticket to this event gains you access to cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, music and an up-close view of the fireworks.
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