Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer. Soon school will be out for the summer, and your family will be enjoying open houses, bonfires, and more to kick off summer. The month of June tends to be a blur, and before you know it, the 4th of July will be here. To make sure you have a great time for the 4th, you should start planning your vacation now. Here are some of the best locations for an awesome Michigan firework show:
Grand Haven
I have spent roughly the last five years in Grand Haven for the 4th of July so I might be a little biased. The fireworks are set off near the Musical Fountain, which is played prior to the fireworks, so it’s like two shows in one. People set up blankets to mark their spots nearly 24 hours in advance so if you want to enjoy the fireworks in Grand Haven, be sure to get there early. If you can take in the fireworks from the water, definitely do so!
Mackinac Island
The Mackinac Bridge is iconic. Add some fireworks and you have quite the show. Mackinac Island is a special place to spend the day before taking in the show. Ride bikes around the island, grab some fudge, and spend the day exploring before relaxing and watching the fireworks over the lake.
Portage
Located just south of Kalamazoo, Portage is a smaller town with a big firework show. The firework show takes place at McCamley Field and admission is free, but donations are accepted. The field allows for a lot of seating, making it a popular place to take in the show for a very up-close and personal firework display! The firework show is accompanied by a concert and a lot of delicious food too!
Boyne City
Boyne City puts on an amazing festival for the 4th of July. Between a parade, craft show, and food you won’t be bored. They also have a variety of races to check out including a 10k or 2-mile race, a raft race on the water, and most importantly a rubber duck race! All of this is accompanied by live music followed by a spectacular firework show.
Dearborn
The Salute to America festival at The Henry Ford is quite the experience. There is an amazing drum parade, a cannon fire, and live music prior to the firework show, including a performance by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. The festival does have a cost though, which varies based on age and member/nonmember status.