Where to see fireworks and celebrate the Fourth of July in Alabama

Fourth of July weekend is here. While you’re making arrangements for a full-blown backyard barbecue—complete with juicy burgers and even juicier watermelon—it’s also a good idea to start plotting out your firework viewing strategy for when night descends.

To make planning your perfect holiday weekend even easier, we’ve compiled a list of firework shows and events to attend across the state. From all-day festivals and live music to spectacular displays, here are the best ways to celebrate Independence Day in Alabama this year.

4th of July Fireworks and Concert at The AMP | Lake Martin | July 4

Find a spot on the grassy lawn at Lake Martin’s gathering spot, The AMP, for the largest 4th of July fireworks display in the Southeast. The party starts at 6:30 p.m. with a performance from cover band The Bank Walkers. Country artist Andrew Jannakos takes the stage at 8 p.m. and the fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.

Fire on the Water | Oak Mountain State Park | July 3

Fun for the whole family can be found at Oak Mountain State Park in Birmingham. The annual Fire on the Water event takes place on Sunday this year from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Expect food trucks, swimming off the sandy beach, music, and fireworks on the water.

Independence Day 1776 | American Village | July 4

There’s no better place to celebrate America than at historic American Village in Montevallo. For just $5 admission, you’ll have access to a full day of patriotic events and activities starting at 12 p.m. Enjoy music, dance, games, patriots of the past, fireworks, and food trucks.

Birmingham Barons vs. Tennessee Smokies | Regions Field | July 4

Celebrate the Fourth with America’s favorite pastime and everything that goes along with it. We’re talking homeruns, hot dogs, cold beer, and of course peanuts and Cracker Jacks. After the game, which starts at 5:30 p.m., stick around for a fireworks show to top off the night.

Thunder on the Mountain | Vulcan | July 4

For Birminghamians, Thunder on the Mountain has been a Fourth of July tradition for generations. The annual firework show atop Vulcan on Red Mountain features more than 2,500 fireworks that light up the sky paired with patriotic music that you can tune into on a local radio station.

DeSoto State Park Independence Day Celebration | DeSoto State Park | July 1-2

Head to DeSoto State Park in Fort Payne for a two days of family fun starting with the 9th annual Splish & Splash Pool Party. $1 entry includes access to the pool, entry for door prizes, and ice cream. On Saturday, head to the Independence Day Parade at 3 p.m., followed by an ice cream social and flag-making contest at the campground pavilion.

Trash Pandas Crawfish Festival | Toyota Field | July 2

Huntsville’s minor league baseball team is throwing an Independence Day weekend bash in the form of a crawfish festival that will include live music, performances, and entertainment. There will also be a giant bungee trampoline, inflatable moon bounce, obstacle course, putt putt, yard games, and of course a crawfish eating contest. Fireworks will cap off the night at 9 p.m.

Smith Lake Park Fireworks & Music Festival | Smith Lake Park | July 4

Celebrate the Fourth with a full day of arts and crafts, food, live music, and fireworks at Smith Lake Park. During the day, you can soak up the sun on the beach area or at the swimming pool. Kayak, canoe, and paddle board rentals will also be available. And don’t forget to get a good spot for the famous golf cart parade.

Spirit of America Festival | Point Mallard Park | July 4

Head to Point Mallard Park in Decatur, site of the annual hot air balloon festival, to celebrate America’s heritage and birthday at one the largest free Independence Day celebrations in the state. Enjoy family games, field competitions, live music, sports, tournaments, and food and craft vendors. Fireworks cap off the night.

4th of July Celebration | Cooper Riverside Park & Mardi Gras Park | July 4

Mobile’s big Fourth celebration kicks off at Mardi Gras Park with a kid zone complete with inflatable bounce houses, games, activities, vendors, and a live DJ at 4 p.m. The fun continues at Cooper Riverside Park with live music form New Orleans Karma from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and the main event, the firework show, beginning at 9 p.m.

(Courtesy of SoulGrown)