Every Independence Day is a call for celebration, but the semiquincentennial makes this year particularly special. This Fourth of July marks the 250th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence — proclaiming freedom from Great Britian and marking the birth of the United States of America.
Families will certainly be looking for ways to enjoy themselves this holiday. If you need a list of Fourth of July festivities in and around the Steel City, look no further. We’ve rounded up some of the best family-friendly events in the burgh — filled with fireworks, food and fun!
The 52nd Westmoreland Arts and Heritage Festival at Twin Lakes Park runs from July 2 through July 5. The festival boasts 50 live performances, 220 arts and craft vendors, cultural heritage activities and ethnic food booths. General admission is free.
The nationally recognized event is repeatedly ranked one of the “100 Best Classic & Contemporary Craft Shows” by Sunshine Artist Magazine and “Best of the Best” by Trib Live. There are multiple children’s activity booths — some with a fee, some free.
On July 3, Findlay Township is hosting a free evening of music, giveaways, delicious food, balloons and airbrush tattoos. Gates open at 5 p.m. and fireworks will begin around 9:45 p.m. Shuttles from the activity center and Pittsburgh International Commerce Park will be provided at no charge.
Mars Borough’s America250 event will commence July 3 with the dedication of a new flagpole. On the Fourth, the party will continue with a parade, sidewalk sale and Native American dancers from the Lenape and Seneca tribes. Fireworks will begin at dusk, and music from the event will be broadcast on 88.1 FM.
Downtown Pittsburgh’s celebration at Point State Park will begin with firing of cannons and a flag raising ceremony at 4 p.m. Musical performances will feature local artists, national touring acts, a patriotic brass band, as well as a special surprise guest — even Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O’Connor is keeping it under wraps.
Mt. Washington’s Grandview Park will feature live music from local legends while the North Shore’s events include a D.J., food vendors and a hot air balloon. From July 1 to July 5, a 90-foot Ferris wheel will be situated on the North Shore, in honor of inventor George Ferris, who once lived in the city’s Central North Side.
In May, Pittsburgh received national recognition by being ranked No. 1 in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for “Best Fourth of July Celebration.” The burgh beat out Philadelphia, St. Louis, San Diego and even Washington D.C. for the top spot!
So, it’s not surprising that Independence Day’s 250th anniversary will be the brightest and best. Mayor O’Connor said this year will have the largest fireworks display in Pittsburgh’s history! At 9:35 p.m., fireworks will launch from six barges on the rivers surrounding Point State Park, lighting up the waterfront and downtown Pittsburgh.
For more Fourth of July fun, here are some family-friendly celebrations in and around Pittsburgh:
Fireworks & Festivities
- 52nd Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival | July 2-5 (Latrobe)
- Pittsburgh BBQ and Band Fest | July 2-5 (Monroeville)
- Brownsville 4th of July Celebration at Patsy Hillman Park | July 3 (Hiller)
- Independence Day Fireworks Celebration | July 3 (Imperial)
- Mars America250 and July 4 Celebration | July 3-4 (Mars)
- Fourth of July Fireworks Paddle | July 4 (Pittsburgh)
- Greater Canonsburg 4th of July Celebration | July 4 (Canonsburg)
- Independence Day 250th Celebration at Point State Park (Pittsburgh)
- Latrobe 4th of July Celebration at Legion-Keener Park | July 4 (Latrobe)
- Monongahela July 4th Celebration | July 4 (Monongahela)
- Red, Whites, & BOOM! | July 4 (West Newton)
- Zelienople America250 Fourth of July Parade | July 4 (Zelienople)
