The US has countless ways to celebrate the 4th of July. All over the country, there are parades, BBQs, fireworks, and much more. But there can’t be a better way to celebrate, or spend a hot July day than at the beach. Historic cities like Boston, New York and Philadelphia have both the wildest parties and pristine beaches.
1. Huntington Beach – CA
Located between San Diego and LA, Huntington Beach is where SoCal city slickers go to relax. This upbeat beach town is always busy with surf competitions and markets along the beach, but its 4th of July lineup is not only happening, but quite historical.
Since 1904, the Huntington Beach 4th of July Parade has taken over Pacific Coast Highway for Independence Day morning. Starting at 10 a.m., it includes celebrity guests, like Lou Ferrigno, soldiers and more. You’ll find a four-day festival at Pier Plaza with daily and nightly entertainment. Last but not least, the surf city has fireworks over the ocean at 9 p.m.
2. Coney Island – NY
Naturally, America’s first capital city is going to host some of the country’s best fireworks displays. But what you might not expect to see is one of the country’s most famous eating competitions. Nathan’s Famous July Fourth International Hot Dog Eating Championship is an American tradition. Qualifiers from 12 cities across the country make their way to Coney Island to scarf down as many hot dogs as possible.
Coney Island is your classic American summer destination with its boardwalk, junk food, fast rides and beaches. On top of taking advantage of this NYC seaside destination and watching the competition, this is a great place to base yourself for all the 4th of July celebrations happening in NYC, like Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks and more.
3. Virginia Beach – Virginia
Virginia Beach is the perfect American resort town all summer long. It especially erupts at 4th of July for its Stars and Stripes Explosion. On top of an incredible fireworks display, the beach destination also hosts several free concerts. You’ll find Motown, patriotic tunes and tribute bands. They even feature British tunes as a sort of nod to our former enemies.
4. Lake Michigan – IL
Did you know that Chicago has a 26-mile beach front and hosts around 400 neighbourhood festivals a year? With these two facts in mind, you can bet Chicago is the perfect beach destination comes 4th of July.
People will be able to see the Fourth of July Fireworks at Navy Pier along the Lake Michigan shoreline or from the water at a boat party. Throughout the week, you’ll find several food and music festivals around the city, such as the Summerfest Milwaukee, Independence Eve Celebration at Grant Park, and the Windy City RibFest. Chicago has everything you could want out of a 4th of July celebration and more.
5. Miami Beach – FL
Miami is one of America’s finest beach destinations. After spending a day playing beach volleyball and sunbathing, head to America’s Birthday Bash at Bayfront Park for fireworks, food booths and liver performances. You could also just stay at the beach all night. The city of Miami also hosts a Fourth of July Celebration on the beach at 8th Street and Ocean Drive.
Of course, Miami also has a wild side year-round and that comes out even more so on the Fourth. You will find the most insane pool parties and yacht parties on for Independence Day all across town.
Where are you celebrating Independence Day? Tell us in a comment below.