The most dazzling Fourth of July fireworks shows in Iowa
No matter where you live in the state, you’ll be able to enjoy dazzling Fourth of July fireworks shows in Iowa. Here are all the details.
The Fourth of July is somehow right around the corner. I don’t know about you, but I like to figure out my holiday plans in advance so it’s easier to enjoy everything when the time comes. Luckily, Iowa hosts several phenomenal Fourth of July fireworks shows throughout the state, so the only real stressor here is narrowing down your options! Whether you plan to travel to a larger city to celebrate or you happen to live nearby, these displays are sure to be the perfect end to a beautiful summer day.
Remember: Fireworks can be dangerous, and are often stressful for your pets. Here are some good safety tips to follow to keep your animals safe on July 4, and these are some additional guidelines to protect your children as well.
Des Moines
As of May 9, fireworks restrictions in Des Moines have been loosened, meaning that Iowans can use them to celebrate the Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve. Certain rules and timelines are in place to ensure everyone’s safety, which you can read more about here.
If you want to skip lighting your own fireworks (which seems like the better option, if you ask me), there are a few different celebrations taking place in and around Des Moines on July 3 and July 4. The Des Moines Symphony’s Yankee Doodle Pops is scheduled for July 3 beginning at 6:30 p.m. on the West Terrace of Iowa’s State Capitol. More than 100,000 people are expected to partake in this tradition, so you’ll want to get there early to secure the best viewing spot. Learn more about that fireworks show and concert here.
Des Moines’s Rendezvous on the River takes place the following day, on July 4 itself, starting around 5:30 p.m. The event is free to attend and features performances, food vendors, fireworks, and more. There are also fireworks shows scheduled at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, at the end of an Iowa Cubs game, and in Walnut Hill, among others. For additional Des Moines events, please click here.
Cedar Rapids
The Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival runs from June 26 through July 4, giving you ample opportunities for fireworks shows, car shows, pancake breakfasts, and more. Fourth of July festivities kick off at 8 a.m. with a pancake breakfast at the Veterans Memorial Building located at 50 2nd Avenue Bridge, where meals will be provided for $10 per adult. Children five years of age and younger will receive their meals for free. More information on the breakfast can be found here.
Also taking place on July 4 is the Downtown Car Show from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., which is free to attend. The Cedar Rapids Celebration of Freedom then kicks off around 1:30 p.m. and runs until 11 p.m. Live performances are scheduled, and there will be balloons, bounce houses, trackless train rides, face painting, food trucks, and more.
Coralville
Coralville’s 4thFest features mostly free events held between July 3 and July 4, including a basket auction, a 5K run/walk, a concert, a parade, numerous vendors, and a fireworks show on July 4 at S.T. Morrison Park. Many of the festivities are expected to take place rain or shine. A full schedule of events and details can be found here.
Clear Lake
Similar to other Iowa cities and towns, Clear Lake holds a multi-day (July 2-6) festival to celebrate the Fourth of July. There will be a carnival and parade, live music, Freedom 5K, vendor market, BINGO, fireworks over Clear Lake, and a Family Feud Game Show, just to name a few! Click here for an hourly breakdown of each day’s activities.
Waukee
Waukee’s Independence Day Celebration begins at 4:30 p.m. on July 3 and carries on until 9:30 p.m. on July 4. These two days will be packed with family-friendly activities like badminton, a bubble gum blowing contest, bingo, a pancake breakfast, a climbing wall, inflatables, and a screening of Captain America: Brave New World, all of which are free to attend. Some tournaments require an entry fee. Check out the event’s website for more details and an hourly schedule.
Dubuque
Dubuque’s Annual Air Show and Fireworks takes place on July 3 and features flight demonstrations, aviation activities, fireworks, and more. It’s a unique way to spend the holiday and is perfect for aviation fans or those who simply want to try something different this year. Aircraft and performers may change depending on weather conditions. Click here to learn more.
Quad Cities
The Quad Cities are hosting the Red White and Boom America’s Birthday Party on July 3 beginning at 9:30 p.m. Admission is free at three separate viewing areas: Schwiebert Riverfront Park in Rock Island, LeClaire Park in Davenport, and Modern Woodmen Park, where you’ll be able to enjoy the fireworks show over the Mississippi River. You can also tune into the broadcast on 97X if you can’t or don’t wish to attend in person.
Additional festivities, like music performances, kid zones, and more, will also take place. Here’s everything you need to know about celebrating July 4 in the Quad Cities.
Okoboji
Okoboji’s Fourth of July Fireworks show is scheduled for July 4 from 10 to 10:30 p.m. at West Lake Okoboji, located at 37 Lake Street in Arnolds Park. Okoboji has been holding this holiday celebration for over 40 years, and families will be able to enjoy a breathtaking fireworks display from numerous vantage points along the lake’s shore. KUOO Campus Radio FM 103.9 will feature patriotic music timed with the fireworks display.
It’s recommended that you bring your own blanket if you plan to view the show from Arnolds Park. You’re also welcome to watch the fireworks on your boat on the water as long as you adhere to all necessary safety guidelines. Details about Okoboji’s event can be found here.
Eastern Iowa
In addition to the Fourth of July fireworks shows in Cedar Rapids, Coralville, and Dubuque, Eastern Iowa will host Fourth of July parades and celebrations in several other cities and towns, including Burlington, Ely, and Iowa City. For a full list of ways you can have fun on Independence Day in Eastern Iowa, please click here.
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