Looking for the Best Place to see Fireworks? Look No Farther than Right Here

Where will you go this Fourth of July to see fireworks? You might want to consider one of four California cities rated as the best cities to celebrate Fourth of July.

With 86% of Americans planning to celebrate the 4th of July this year and collective food spending for the holiday to reach $8.9 billion, the personal-finance company WalletHub today released its report on 2025’s Best & Worst Places for 4th of July Celebrations, to go along with interesting stats about the holiday in its 4th of July Facts & Figures infographic and 4th of July Survey.

To determine the best places to celebrate the most star-spangled occasion, WalletHub compared the 100 largest U.S. cities based on how well they balance holiday cost and fun. The data set of 18 key metrics ranges from average beer and wine prices to duration of fireworks shows to the Fourth of July weather forecast.

Best Cities to Celebrate 4th of July
1. Las Vegas, NV
2. New York, NY
3. Los Angeles, CA
4. Minneapolis, MN
5. St. Paul, MN
6. Seattle, WA
7. San Diego, CA
8. San Francisco, CA
9. Orlando, FL
10. Sacramento, CA

Fourth of July Facts & Figures

  • $8.9 Billion: Amount Americans plan to spend on 4th of July food.
  • 150 Million: Number of hot dogs eaten each 4th of July.
  • $2.8 Billion: Estimated amount spent on fireworks in 2024 (66% of fireworks injuries occur within a month of July 4).
  • $4.7 Million: Value of American flags imported annually.
  • 72.2 Million: Number of people who travel 50+ miles from home for the 4th of July (up 2.4% over 2024 and setting a new record for the holiday).

Survey Key Findings

  • Debt Shadows Freedom: 79% of Americans say our independence is threatened by the rising federal debt.
  • Financial freedom: 38% of Americans don’t feel financially independent this 4th of July.
  • Budgeting for the holiday: 53% of Americans plan to spend less money this 4th of July than they did last year.
  • Turning in their graves: 7 in 10 Americans think the founding fathers would not be satisfied with the current economy.
  • Tariff’s impact: 48% of people say tariffs are affecting their 4th of July plans.
  • Wallet vs. Nation: Nearly 1 in 3 Americans say they’re not willing to pay extra to buy U.S.-made products.

“The 4th of July is one of the most beloved holidays in America, allowing many of us to not only celebrate our independence but also get a day off of work and gather together with family and friends,” according to Chip Lupo, WalletHub Analyst. “The best cities for the holiday help you make the most of your day, with affordable food options, good weather, fun recreation choices and long, spectacular fireworks shows.

“Las Vegas is the best city for 4th of July celebrations, in part because there’s no shortage of things to do, as the city ranks first in entertainment and recreational facilities and has the fourth-most party supply stores per capita, in addition to a multitude of other recreational activities to enjoy on the day off.”

Expert Commentary
 
What money-saving tips do you have for people planning to travel for the Fourth of July?

“There are several enticing deals right now, so I would recommend that travelers book early and consider looking at multiple sites for good deals… Also, many hotel companies are now offering deals for Skip Gen travel, where grandparents and kids travel together. For those travelers, it is worth a search to find the best offers. Also look at potential perks from credit card companies. As many consumers are cutting back on increasing their debt, there may be good offers to help you earn cash back on travel.”
— Amanda Belarmino, PhD. – Associate Professor, University of Nevada, Las Vegas

“Unless you have a compelling reason to travel longer distances, stay local. There are great fireworks displays in most communities. It is an American tradition. Pack a picnic and find a good location to watch. Many communities even stagger their fireworks with neighboring towns so you can catch displays on Friday, Saturday and maybe even Sunday. Many communities hold local festivals connected with the holiday. Look to see if your area has a parade.”
— Jeffery Elsworth, PhD – Associate Professor, Michigan State University

The Fourth of July falls on a Friday this year. How does holiday timing affect people’s spending and travel plans? 

“This is always a good sign for tourism, and traditionally these are the busiest 4th of July weekends. Consumers tend to travel more frequently during the 4th of July weekend, spend more, and stay longer. Many companies may give them Thursday or Monday off, so destinations can expect increased demand.”
— Amanda Belarmino, PhD. – Associate Professor, University of Nevada, Las Vegas

“With the 4th falling on a Friday, many Americans have a built in three-day weekend, likely to increase travel volume and consumer spending. The timing encourages people to invest in full weekends away, which means extra spending on dining, entertainment, and local attractions. Of course, hotels, airlines, even ride sharing rates tend to increase in anticipation of the demand. Beach towns, mountain cabins, and historic cities can book up quickly. In today’s volatile economy, not everyone wants to take on the additional financial burden. This creates opportunities for savvy planners to avoid peak rates by adjusting travel dates, choosing alternate, less-crowded destinations, or seeking adventures closer to home.”
— Christian E. Hardigree – Regional Chancellor and Professor, University of South Florida St. Petersburg
Has recent volatility in the economy and the stock market, driven by tariffs and mass layoffs, changed the way Americans celebrate the Fourth of July?

“I have noticed that there are a few communities who have cancelled or pared down their festivities. Also, there are some retail fireworks dealers who have reported difficulties stocking fireworks because many come from China.”
— Jeffery Elsworth, PhD – Associate Professor, Michigan State University

“Short answer, yes. With recent headlines dominated by stock market fluctuations, ongoing tariffs, and mass layoffs in various sectors, many Americans are tightening their wallets. Fiscal uncertainty results in people being more cautious about how they spend on non-essential activities. Lavish vacation destinations, expensive fireworks displays, and elaborate parties are giving way to simpler, more cost-conscious alternatives that still capture the spirit of the holiday without straining the budget. People are still finding ways to celebrate, swapping out for more local, low-cost alternatives. This is a chance to turn to budget-friendly backyard barbeques, pot-lucks with neighbors, city-sponsored parades, and free local community firework displays. Show off your culinary skills with new and unique recipes (hello, 87-ways to make deviled eggs). Retailers are also promoting deals on food, decorations, and outdoor gear that appeal to value-focused consumers. The shift keeps things fun while also being intentional and practical in how we pursue our celebrations.”
— Christian E. Hardigree – Regional Chancellor and Professor, University of South Florida St. Petersburg

For the complete survey results, visit: https://wallethub.com/blog/4th-of-july-spending-survey/39371

 

 

 

Image Sources

  • Fireworks: Pixabay