The Declaration of Independence, which heralded the birth of our nation, was adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776 – and we’ve been celebrating with parties, parades and other festivities since July 4, 1777.
Independence Day is almost here once again, and people are excited about the fact that they can once again celebrate in person. People may even be a little extra enthusiastic this year because the Fourth of July – which has been a federal holiday since 1941 – falls on a Monday. For a lot of folks, that means a three-day weekend filled with family barbecues, shopping, great sales and (of course) fantastic displays of light and sound.
So, where can you find the best fireworks around Indiana? Here’s your guide:
Downtown Indy 4th of July Fireworks – 8 PM to 10:30 PM, July 4
When you really want your Independence Day holiday to go off with a bang, why not take in Indy’s biggest and brightest celebration? Every year, the city launches a massive fireworks display synced to music on the local radio stations.
The crowd will mostly be gathered around the American Legion Mall and the Indiana War Memorial, which offers a great view of the fireworks as they’re launched from the rooftop of the 500 North Meridian office building. However, you may want to consider finding a prime spot in an outdoor dining area nearby, where you can view the entire display in luxury and comfort.
CarmelFest 2022 – 9:45 PM, July 4
If you really enjoy the Fourth of July festivities, why not make a whole day of it? CarmelFest is one of Indiana’s favorite summer traditions.
Head to Carmel and do a little shopping with unique vendors (which helps support the local economy), indulge in your favorite fair food items, listen to some great music, cheer for the folks in the parade and wrap up the evening with the fireworks at Central Carmel Industrial Drive. This is a great place for entire families, so grab your whole brood and get ready to celebrate.
2022 Marion County Fair – 7:30 PM to 10 PM, July 4
The Marion County Fair runs until July 9th, but it really kicks off on the 4th. Throughout the day, you can take in horse shows, dog shows and livestock exhibits, check out the arts and crafts, do some shopping with small vendors and enjoy the rides and fair food.
The big band music – another Independence Day tradition – starts at 7:30 in the evening, and the fireworks begin promptly at 10.
Hummel Park Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza – 5 PM to 10:30 PM, July 4
This is one of the biggest displays of lights and sounds you can find in central Indiana for the Fourth – but the whole event is great for the entire family.
All of the excitement at Hummel Park starts at 5 PM, with live music, bounce houses for the kids and tons of food and patriotic fervor. The fireworks start at 9:55 PM for a half-hour of incredible thrills.
Red, White & Blueberry Festival – 12 AM to 9 PM, July 2-4
Do you prefer a slightly more relaxed Fourth of July? Then head over to Mallow Run Winery and make the most of their blueberry festival – along with the blueberry hard cider and the blueberry wine.
The music starts at 6 PM on Saturday and Sunday, but Indy Annies will be playing by 2 PM on Monday. The fireworks finale will start as soon as it’s dark enough to give the best show. (Even better: Admission is free on Monday!)
Zionsville Lions Club 4th of July Celebration – 5 PM to 10:30 PM, July 4
Are you looking for a family-friendly and cost-effective way to spend the Fourth of July? You’ll love the celebration at the Zionsville Lions Club Park.
While there’s an $8 parking charge per vehicle, admission is free – and there’s plenty of fair food to keep the kids satisfied and attractions to keep them entertained while you wait for the fireworks to start at dusk (around 10 PM). (If the weather isn’t compliant with your plans, no worries: They’ve selected July 9th as a rain date.)
Night at the Park in Avon – 6 PM to 10 PM, July 2
If you don’t actually have Monday off to celebrate, you still don’t have to miss out. Avon, Indiana, is holding its annual Night at the Park on July 2nd.
The best part? Everything except the food is free! You can keep the kids entertained with games, animal shows, face painting and pony rides while you hang out in your folding chair and listen to the music that’s playing. The fireworks will start soon after dark, so make sure that you get there early to find a good spot for viewing.
Star-Spangled Symphony at Conner Prairie – 8 PM to 10 PM, July 1-4
The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra pays tribute to each of the U.S. Armed Forces throughout this annual event, which takes place at Conner Prairie – the place where history comes alive!
You can throw on your red, white and blue patriotic wear, grab a picnic dinner and a blanket or chairs, and hang out while you experience many symphonies and old-time favorites. Real cannon fire and fireworks round out each evening in an exciting tribute to our country’s history.
When you head out the door this year, please keep in mind the weather conditions. Pack your bug spray, grab extra bottles of water for everyone and make sure you have sunscreen on hand if you’re going out before dusk. If the weather isn’t compliant with your plans, check each event’s website for updates.
As always, the folks here at F.C. Tucker wish you all a grand time as you celebrate American independence, and we hope that all your summer days continue to be amazing.
