After a day grilling out with your family and friends, lounging by the pool, and singing America’s national anthem or “God Bless America” a time or two, it’s time to paint the town red (white and blue). Here are the best family-friendly places to celebrate America’s birthday and watch some amazing fireworks shows!

Independence Day in Houston

Southwest Airlines Freedom Over Texas

Where: Eleanor Tinsley Park | When: July 4th | Cost: $8/person; FREE/kids under 5
With the Houston skyline as the backdrop and live music from Clint Black and Josh Turner, this spectacular fireworks experience is unmatched! Don’t forget your lawn chairs and blankets to sit on.

July 4th Celebration at Bayou Bend

Where: Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens | When: July 4th 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM | FREE
A day event catered to only the most patriotic families. At this event you can enjoy street performers, crafts, food, and you can even sign a replica of the Declaration of Independence!

ExxonMobil Summer Symphony

Where: Miller Outdoor Theater | When: July 4th 8:30 PM | FREE
Enjoy an evening under the stars listening to the Houston Symphony play all the patriotic classics. Make sure you stay for the finale of 1812 Overture, complete with real cannons, and a fireworks display show!

4th of July Weekend at CityCentre

Where: City Centre | When: July 3rd, 4th, and 5th | FREE
Enjoy an entire weekend of free concerts – classic rock, 90s music, and country music galore – and booming fireworks show!

18th Annual Red, Hot, & Blue Festival & Fireworks

Where: Town Green Park & Waterway Square | When: July 4th 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM | FREE
This 4th of July event focuses on what matters most, celebrating American Heroes. With two locations along the waterway, you can enjoy all of the activities!

4th Fest in Pasadena

Where: Pasadena Convention Center | When: July 4th 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM | FREE
As Pasadena’s largest city event, the 4th Fest features live music, water balloon fights, a truck show, and a 20-minute fireworks show finale!

Independence Day Parade and Fireworks Show

Where: Galveston Island | When: July 4th 7:30 PM | FREE
The parade on Galveston Island will feature local groups, performers, floats, decorated military cars, and more! Make sure you stay until the end – you won’t want to miss out on the fireworks show at 9:15 PM over the waters of the Gulf!

We hope you have a great and safe Independence Day holiday!