Party Ideas by Shindigz

Looking for a memorable Fourth of July experience?  Shindigz compiled a list of nine amazing, 2012 Fourth of July festivals. 

“We looked for the events that stand out from the rest.  They might include a large fireworks display, a unique patriotic parade, or a special event that creates special family memories,” says Jacquie Downey, Director of Sales and Marketing at Shindigz.com, a leading source for personalized, party supplies, beautiful, parade float decorations, and patriotic, Fourth of July party supplies.

#9 Lexington, KY – Fourth of July Festival and Great American Pie Contest

This Bluegrass City hosts over a dozen events between June 29 and July 7.  Highlights include the Great American Pie Contest and Ice Cream Social, the Bluegrass 10,000 Foot Race, outdoor movies, fireworks, and Red, White and BOOM – a county music event on Saturday July 7.

 #8 South Lake Tahoe, NV – Lights on the Lake Fireworks

Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America and the Sierra Nevada mountain range make the “Lights on the Lake” fireworks a visual treat.  Many beaches and parks, as well as thousands of boats on the lake, provide spectators with a great view of the display.  The American Pyrotechnics Association says this is a “must see” event.

 #7 San Diego, CA – Big Bay Boom

Over 500,000 watch fireworks launched from four barges in San Diego Bay.  The event raises nearly $400,000 for the San Diego Armed Services YMCA’s service programs for military families.

 #6 Saint Louis, MO – Fair Saint Louis

For three days, July 4, 6, and 7, St. Louis celebrates with airshows, concerts, kids’ activities and fireworks under the shadow of the Gateway Arch. Don’t miss the 135^th Annual Veiled Prophet Parade with giant helium-filled character balloons.

  #5 Addison, TX – Kaboom Town

Addison’s choreographed, 30 minute, musical fireworks takes place on July 3.  This display is recognized as “one of the best” by the American Pyrotechnics Association.  The Cavanaugh Flight Museum Warbird flyover and airshow features vintage military aircraft.  Addison’s celebration is famous for being the tops in the Dallas and Fort Worth area.

 #4 Philadelphia, PA – Wawa Welcome America

For ten days between July 25 and July 4, Philadelphia celebrates America.  Residents and tourists enjoy free concerts and outdoor movies, The Taste of Philadelphia, Hoagie Day, Independence Day parade, and two nights of fireworks are just samples of the holiday fun that make this Philly tradition famous.

 The top three, amazing 4^th of July festivals include the kings of firework displays.  If you don’t get to experience them live, watch them on television.

 #3 New York City, NY – Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks

Over 25 minutes, 40,000 shells launch, while 3,000,000 spectators watch.  Macy’s and the Big Apple sponsor this amazing display and NBC broadcasts it.

#2 Boston, MA – Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular

This will be the 39^th Annual Boston Pops Fourth of July event and CBS will broadcast it.  Last year, 15,000 pyrotechnic events burst over the Charles River in sync with the music.

 #1 Washington DC – A Capital Fourth and National Independence Day Parade

An all-day event, our nation’s capital celebration starts with a parade down Constitution Avenue. Other daytime events during include, The National Folklife festival, which is held throughout the Mall.  The signing of Declaration of Independence is featured with family events at the National Archives.  The National Symphony, national musical guests and fireworks illuminating the U. S. Capital and national monuments take center stage during the evening and air on PBS.