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10 Best Places in Ohio to Watch 4th of July Fireworks 2023

Posted in Health & Wellness, Leisure on June 26, 2023

fireworks 4th of july little girls

Fireworks, parades, and other 4th of July celebrations are kicking off this weekend. From big-city displays to small-town parades, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your friends and family and check out one or all of our favorite Independence Day events across the state of Ohio.

Our Top 10 Picks for 2023

  1. Red, White & Boom! (Columbus) – July 3: The BOOM! Street Festival begins at 11 a.m., the parade starts at 5:30 p.m., and a spectacular fireworks display synchronized to music along the downtown riverfront begins at 10 p.m.
  2. Lights in Flight Fireworks Festival (Dayton) – July 3: The street festival held at Riverscape MetroPark is canceled this year, but the fireworks will begin at 10 p.m.
  3. Fireworks in the 419 (Toledo) – July 1: A family-friendly event held at Promenade Park, featuring live entertainment, food trucks, and stunning fireworks over the Maumee River at 10 p.m.
  4. Independence Day Fireworks (Put-in-Bay) – July 4: A festive celebration on South Bass Island in Lake Erie, with fireworks launched from a barge near the downtown harbor, creating a beautiful display over the water. Fireworks begin at dusk.
  5. Light Up the Lake (Cleveland) – July 4: The fireworks begin at 10 p.m. and can be seen from the Flats East and West Bank, Whiskey Island, Wendy Park, Edgewater Park, Kirtland Park, Superior Viaduct, Settlers Landing, and beyond. There will be a free watch party at Voinovich Park from 5 pm to 10:30pm, featuring a DJ, games, kids’ activities and food trucks.
  6. Light Up the Point (Cedar Point) – July 4: One of the largest 4th of July fireworks shows on the Great Lakes! This event takes place at Cedar Point amusement park in Sandusky and includes a dazzling fireworks show that can be viewed from the park’s beachfront or roller coasters. Fireworks begin at dusk.
  7. Rib White & Blue Festival (Akron) – June 30 – July 4: A free five-day festival in Downtown Akron. Fourth of July celebration held at Lock 3 Park, featuring live music, family activities, and a stunning fireworks display that will begin after the conclusion of the Rubber Ducks game.
  8. Coney Island Annual Balloon Glow (Cincinnati) – July 3: An annual event, featuring dozens of hot air balloons, inflatable obstacles, carnival games, food trucks, and an impressive firework show beginning at 10:15 p.m.
  9. Red, Rhythm and Boom (Mason) – July 3: A free regional event starting at 4 p.m., guests can immerse themselves in an array of carnival and kid zone activities, including a 9-hole putt-putt course, carnival games, and bounce houses. There will also be food trucks and adult beverages available throughout the evening. A performance by the Gin Blossoms and Lit starts at 6 p.m. with fireworks at 10 p.m.
  10. Freedom Festival (North Ridgeville) – July 3: The event takes place at Victory Park and offers food, drinks, activities, live music, and fireworks. Gates open at 4 pm, and proceeds benefit local non-profit organizations. Fireworks begin at 10 pm, lasting around 30 minutes.

Can I legally set off fireworks at my house?

With Ohio’s new fireworks law that went into effect last year, you may be wondering if you can legally set off fireworks at your private residence. The answer? It depends. Although the new law applies to the entire state of Ohio, many cities have opted out of following it. To avoid any potential legal troubles, check with your specific city and familiarize yourself with the local ordinances. Failure to do so may result in misdemeanor charges.