Top 10 Fireworks Displays for Fourth of July 2012
Each year on the Fourth of July Americans gear up for fun-filled family gatherings, picnics, barbecues, and of course fireworks.
Bright, colorful and awe-inspiring displays take place across the nation as we celebrate our independence, and this year, The Christian Post has compiled a list of some of the best places to watch fireworks in the United States
1. New York City
The 36th Annual Macy's Fourth of July fireworks will be lit from barges along New York's Hudson River. Deemed America's biggest fireworks display, the 25 minute show is synchronized to over 40,000 fireworks in 15 colors and 30 shapes synchronized to a score of songs ranging from Ray Charles and Madonna to patriotic tunes like "The Star Spangled Banner."
Additionally, the nationally-broadcasted display will feature performances by pop star Katy Perry and country music legend Kenny Chesney.
The display will be visible from any spot with a view of the sky above the Hudson between 18th and 43rd streets. If you are unable to visit New York City, the fireworks, which begin at 9:20 p.m. EST, will air on ABC.
2. Washington, D.C.
Each year in the U.S. capital, fireworks are launched from the Reflecting Pool area along the National Mall. The 17 minute fireworks display will begin at 9:10 p.m. EST. The display is visible from many locations in D.C. as well as Virginia.
3. Boston
The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular at the Oval on the Esplanade has been celebrating patriotism for the last 39 years with this display. The 36 hour affair began Sunday, and the fireworks extravaganza begins at 8:00 p.m. EST and will be broadcast live on CBS.
4. Philadelphia
Another great fireworks display will take place Wednesday at the Philly Fourth of July Jam and Grand Finale Fireworks, which encourages spectators to come "Celebrate America's Birthday in America's Birthplace: Philadelphia," according to VisitPhilly.com.
"The largest free concert," the Philly Fourth of July Jam will take place along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The fireworks are estimated to begin at 10:30 p.m. EST.
5. Frisco, Texas
In Texas, thousands of families will celebrate July Fourth at the Frisco Freedom Fest, which plans a 20 minute fireworks display. The patriotic part will take place at FC Dallas Stadium and Simpson Plaza.
6. Honolulu
With so many fun things to do in Hawaii, it is hard to imagine the paradise state not providing a fantastic time with their fireworks display at the annual Fourth of July Spectacular. Set to take place in Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, the day-long festivities will see fireworks launched at 8:30 p.m.
7. Miami
America's Birthday Bash is hosted every year in Miami and boasts the largest fireworks show in all of South Florida. The free event will have music, food, beverages, and a free Kid's Zone. Presented by Bayfront Park Management Trust, the fireworks display will start at 9 p.m.
8. Aurora, Colorado
The Fourth of July Spectacular in Aurora will host a fireworks display that Colorado residents can see from surrounding neighborhoods near Aurora. The family-friendly fun starts at 5 p.m., while the fireworks are estimated to launch at 9:30 p.m.
9. Pasadena, California
On its 86th year, "Americafest 2012" will celebrate America with music, food, and of course fireworks. Held at the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium, the "biggest fireworks show in Southern California" will begin at 9:05 p.m.
10. Minneapolis, Minnesota
On the banks of the Mississippi River, the Red, White and Boom celebration will kick off at 6 p.m. on Wednesday. Face painting, music, movies, and other live entertainment are scheduled.
The Twin Cities' Independence Day celebrations will lead to a great fireworks display to light up the sky starting at 10 p.m.