Blossom Music Festival Salute to America (Roger Mastroianni)
Travel

Celebrate Independence Day at 6 Ohio Festivals

Enjoy the Fourth of July holiday with the whole family at these festivals that include family fun, unique events and activities and dazzling fireworks displays.  

The Fourth of July is almost here, and that means it’s time to fire up the grill, put on your red, white and blue and grab your lawn chair to get the best seat in the house for fireworks. This year, Ohio is bringing the fun with festivities across the state that include booming fireworks displays, live cover bands, great food and more all in celebration of America’s birthday. Check out these six ways to make the holiday sparkle.

Kids on Rides at Red, Rhythm and Boom (courtesy of Red, Rhythm and Boom)
Red, Rhythm and Boom | July 3
There is no shortage of fun for kids and adults alike at the city of Mason’s Red, Rhythm and Boom Independence Day celebration July 3. From kids-zone activities like putt-putt, carnival games and bounce houses, to endless food and drink vendors and live entertainment from bands Better Than Ezra and Tonic, this free event at the Mason Municipal Complex offers something for everyone. As festivities wind down, Rozzi Famous Fireworks launches a fireworks and drone show at 10 p.m. for a sparkling sign-off. 

Red, White and BOOM (courtesy of Red, White & BOOM)
Red, White & Boom! | July 3
Stretching 2.5 square miles across downtown Columbus and welcoming more than 400,000 guests annually, Red, White, & Boom! is the largest fireworks show in the Midwest. This free spectacle is preceded by an Independence Day celebration filled with activities including a parade, downtown street festival and live music with performances by School of Rock, Chuck Starr and more. End the night with a dazzling fireworks display at Genoa Park, followed by a grand finale put on by Franklin University.

Blossom Music Center Concert (courtesy of Cleveland Orchestra)
A Salute to America | July 3-4
Tap into your musical side and celebrate Independence Day with the Blossom Festival Band at Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls. Conducted by Michelle Rakers, the band has a night of patriotic themes, beloved Broadway classics and an Armed Forces salute planned for audiences. No show is complete without a finale, and this concert will end with a bang as fireworks light up the sky over the spacious outdoor venue, capping the night with true patriotic flair. 

Boom at the Bay | July 4
Make the trip to Put-In-Bay to celebrate Independence Day against the seemingly endless backdrop of the Lake Erie shore. Bring friends and family to the waterfront to explore a piece of history at Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial, then enjoy the downtown festivities, featuring a classic car parade and a grand finale fireworks display over the Lake Erie Harbor. 

Mentor Fourth of July Concert (courtesy of City of Mentor)
Mentor Independence Day Parade and Fireworks | July 4
Rock out this Independence Day as the city of Mentor invites you to the Mentor Civic Amphitheater for a free concert by Escape, a Journey tribute band. As you rock along, explore an array of food and drink vendors serving up your favorite festival eats. To conclude the evening, kick back to enjoy a stunning fireworks show from the comfort of your lawn chair.  

Light Up the Point (courtesy of Cedar Point)
Light up the Point | July 4-5
Cedar Point is calling thrill chasers and fun lovers to Light Up the Point this July 4 and 5. Spend the day soaring on rides, snacking on classic park treats and exploring every area of the massive park. Then, unwind with one of the largest fireworks shows in the Midwest accompanied by a blend of patriotic tunes and popular hits. Access to this event is included with park admission tickets, and special VIP tickets are available to enhance your viewing experience.

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