We’ve got a long Fourth of July Weekend ahead of us—which means the requisite parades, carnivals, cookouts, and shimmering firework shows planned everywhere from Cherry Hill to the Carroll County Farm Museum.

But this year is set to be even more spectacular, given that America is turning the big 2-5-0. No matter where you plan to post up, expect extra festivities (bigger and brighter fireworks, expanded live music lineups, over-the-top decor) to mark the milestone.

If you’re still locking in where you want to celebrate, check out our master guide for details on the area’s most dazzling displays.

Annapolis: After kicking off the celebration with the annual parade at 6:30 p.m., the Naptown fireworks will launch over the harbor on July 4 starting at 9:30 p.m. For the best viewing experience, head to public spaces northeast of the Severn River, City Dock, the Naval Academy Bridge (be aware of limited parking), or park spaces facing Spa Creek.

If you plan to be in the area throughout the long weekend, check out the capital’s full itinerary for more events like a performance by the Piscataway Nation Singers & Dancers and a fitting outdoor screening of Hamilton.

Bel Air: The Bel Air Independence Committee is back with its all-day Fourth of July funfair—which will feature everything from a pancake breakfast and family water balloon toss to a bicycle rodeo and the annual parade. The day starts with flag-raising ceremonies in the morning and culminates with the blazing fireworks from Rockfield Park at approximately 9:30 p.m. You can watch the sparks fly from any permitted area in or around town.

Catonsville: Break out those lawn chairs. Now in its 80th year, Catonsville’s Fourth of July festival is back with the theme “Hometown Heroes.” Leading up to the fireworks, there will be concerts, games, all-ages activities, and the annual grand parade—for which locals traditionally set out their lawn chairs along Frederick Road days in advance—to look forward to throughout the day. The Grand Fireworks Show will kick off at 9:15 p.m. on the Catonsville High School Athletic Fields.

Cherry Hill: Now in its 10th year, the neighborhood’s annual Arts & Music Waterfront Festival is going all out for a triple milestone celebration: 250 years of America, 100 years of Black History Month, and 80 years of Cherry Hill. Spend the day enjoying live music, food trucks, art installations and small business vendors at Middle Branch Park.

Once again, in lieu of fireworks, organizers with Youth Resiliency Institute, South Baltimore Gateway Partnership, and the mayor’s office are pumped to showcase an eco-conscious drone show, which will go on rain or shine. Scheduled for 9:30 p.m., the display “merges technology and art in a breathtaking aerial show” over the Patapsco. 

Cockeysville: Per tradition, The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s Star-Spangled Spectacular will honor our country’s history with a jaw-dropping fireworks show and performance at Cockeysville’s Oregon Ridge Park. But to honor America 250, the concert has been extended to two nights on July 3 and July 4 this year.

Spread a blanket on the lawn to hear renditions such as the finale from Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, as well as John Williams selections from Star Wars and, of course, “The Star Spangled Banner.” Pack a picnic, or scope out a lineup of food and drink vendors before you settle in beneath the stars. 

Columbia: Co-hosted by Howard County Recreation & Parks, the Columbia Association, and other community orgs, the annual fireworks display will return to the Columbia Lakefront on Independence Day.

The party kicks off at 5 p.m. live music from rockers Chasing Straights (6 p.m.) and new string band supergroup Don Flemons & the Traveling Wildfires (7:30 p.m.) before fireworks light up Lake Kittamaqundi at dusk. You can arrive as early as 3 p.m. to lay out your blankets and claim a spot while enjoying food truck fare.

Dundalk: After last weekend’s Heritage Fair, the Dundalk festivities continue on the big day. Kick off the morning with the 92nd Annual Dundalk Independence Day Parade, the longest continually running procession in Maryland, starting at 8:15 a.m. After the filling up at the family cookout, rally to watch fireworks shoot off from North Point Government Center/Grange Elementary around 9:15 p.m.

Glen Burnie: Bring your blankets and chairs to Sawmill Creek Park (or additional viewing at 3rd Avenue Park) on July 3 at 9 p.m. to watch the sky sparkle, thanks to the Glen Burnie Improvement Association.

Havre De Grace: Before the fireworks, all launched from a barge in the Susquehanna River, fizzle over Concord Point Park at 9:15 p.m. on Sunday, July 5, groove to live tunes to get the party started. At 7:30 p.m., a free show by the Maryland Military Band will kick off the fireworks at Concord Point Park. 

Inner Harbor: Nothing quite compares to watching fireworks illuminate the Inner Harbor skyline. Before the sparks fly around 9 p.m., catch live entertainment everywhere from Pier Six Pavilion (where DJ Supream, DJ Mr. Incredible, Jonathan Gilmore, and Stephanie Mills will take the stage) to Harbor Point—where you can jump into a silent disco for $15. An evening iteration of the Pratt Street Market will also be up and running with local food vendors at McKeldin Square.

To get the best views, take a walk along the Waterfront Promenade, head up to a roof deck, climb atop Federal Hill, or, if you’re looking to splurge, purchase front-row seats with the Baltimore Museum of Industry‘s annual fundraiser—which includes museum admission, parking, and a live concert by John Lamkin Favorites Jazz Quintet. You can also head over to the Sagamore Pendry in Fells Point for a posh pool party and barbecue on the water. (Wagyu burgers, housemade crab chips, and peach shortcakes? Yes, please.)

Laurel: This all-day celebration on July 4 begins at 3 p.m., featuring a parade, car show, live music, and family-friendly games. To end the day, bring your chairs and blankets to the 45-minute firework show over Laurel Lake, which starts at 9:15 p.m. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early to find the best seats.

Mount Airy: Happening on July 3, this free community tradition at the Mount Airy Carnival Grounds invites guests to bring their own chairs, blankets, and coolers with food. Or you can indulge in some fairground treats from an array of food trucks onsite. The gates will open at 4 p.m., followed by live music at 5 p.m., and fireworks around 9:30 p.m. 

Ocean City: If you’re heading downy ocean for the long weekend, make plans to go to either uptown (Northside Park on 127th Street) or downtown (the Caroline Street Stage on the boardwalk) to enjoy live music at 8 p.m. before the big fireworks display at 9:30 p.m. To watch from the water, get tickets aboard the Sea Rocket’s 4th of July Fireworks Cruise.

Towson: Post up along Bosley and Washington Ave. before 10:30 a.m. on Saturday to enjoy Towson’s patriotic parade. Feeling extra festive this year? Decorate your bike in theme with the holiday and line up for the bike rush an hour before the parade starts, finishing just in time to grab your seats before the floats come by. After dark, the Towson Communities Alliance hosts its annual fireworks show from Loch Raven Middle School.

Westminster: Head to the Carroll County Farm Museum to partake in this annual summer soiree. Gates will open at 4 p.m. on July 4, followed by fireworks around 9:30 p.m. While you wait, groove to live tunes by Park Avenue & The Guard and enjoy treats from on-site vendors including The Cow (Italian ice and frozen custard), The Crabby Pretzel, The Arepa Stop, and more. Admission is $10 per vehicle (cash only) and groups can feel free to bring their own coolers with snacks and non-alcoholic drinks.

---

Fact-checking by Caroline McDonough

10/7: Every Step Counts Autism Walk and 5K Run
Choose between a 5K run, 4K walk, or 1K stroll around the beautiful Centennial Lake and have the chance to win prizes. You don’t want to miss out on the event village, packed with inflatables, circus performers, bubble artists, and refreshments. Proceeds benefit the Howard County Autism Society, working to bring together those with autism as well as their family and friends. Centennial Park, Ellicott City. $25–$35.

10/8: Robert I. Damie Race for Our Kids
Run, jog, or walk your way through either a 10K, 5K, or family walk this October. All race courses will take you throughout Druid Hill Park and around the zoo. Competitors will receive a shirt and a medal. Make sure to save some of your energy, because participants will also receive a free ticket to the zoo! All proceeds from the race will go to the Herman & Walter Samuelson Children’s Hospital at Sinai, Rubin Institute for Advanced Orthopedics Save-A-Limb Fund, Center for Hope, and The Family Tree. The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, 1 Safari Pl. $15 –$45. 

10/21: Night to Remember Gala
You’re not going to want to miss out on this black-tie event. Start the night off with a bite to eat (appetizers and sweet treats are included with your ticket price) and then head to the silent auction to scope out some items. End your night on the dance floor, but make sure you don’t miss the (yet to be named) guest speaker. All proceeds go toward BOSSIE Social Enterprises, a seed nonprofit that supports thousands of Marylanders through youth mentoring, minority health initiatives, family/human services, and an entrepreneurial/workforce development accelerator program. 5503 Reisterstown Rd. 8:30p.m. $75.

10/21: Casey Cares Rock ‘N’ Roll Bash
Experience a night packed with rock ‘n’ roll at Rams Head Live, featuring the biggest AC/DC tribute band, High Voltage, and a special surprise band that will be announced soon. Ticket proceeds go toward Casey Cares, an organization that provides services for critically ill children and their families. Ram’s Head Live 20 Market Pl. 6:30p.m.–11:30p.m. 

10/28: Believe in Tomorrow Children’s Foundation Port to Fort 6K
Get in the Halloween spirit and dash your way through historic Fort McHenry on this family- friendly 6K. You will have the chance to win prizes and T-shirts, and afterward, party it up at the best post-race party in the state featuring music, food, contests, and even trick-or-treating. Entry fees will benefit the Believe In Tomorrow Children’s Foundation, which provides hospital and housing services to critically ill children and their families. 1215 E. Fort Ave. 8:30a.m. $20 –$30. 

10/28: Walk to End Alzheimer’s
Walk your way toward a cure for Alzheimer’s and dementia. This walk is open to people of all ages, families, and (well behaved) dogs. All participants will receive a flower in a color that correlates to their relationship with the disease, and if you meet the donation criteria, you will receive a T-shirt. While there is no entry fee, participants are encouraged to fundraise. All proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Association which works to find a cure for Alzheimer’s and dementiarelated diseases. 118 Shawan Rd., Hunt Valley. 8 a.m.

10/28: Night at the Grove
Celebrate with the 29th Street Community Center at the Peabody Heights Brewery as part of its annual fundraiser. Start off your night with delicious food and
drink, but make sure to save some time to tear up the dance floor. The 29th Street Community Center works to empower and support individuals by creating welcoming, safe, and accessible spaces and programs to amplify the voices of individuals in Baltimore. Peabody Heights Brewery, 401 E. 30th St. 6 p.m.–9 p.m.

11/1: 11th Annual Men’s Basketball Tip-Off Game
Head out to this event to hear O’s legend Cal Ripken Jr., along with some of the greatest coaches in basketball history, talk all things college basketball. Attendees will receive lunch before the panel starts. Proceeds will go toward the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation, which helps America’s most underserved and distressed communities and supports and advocates for children. 700 Aliceanna St. 11:30a.m.

11/4: Shelley’s House Glitz & Glam Roaring Twenties Casino Night Gala
Wear your best to travel back in time 100 years to a night of glitz and glamour at this 1920s themed gala. Test your luck at the casino table or dance the night away to jazzy tunes from the era. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on the mouth-watering delicacies, inspired by the ’20s. Proceeds will go toward Shelley’s House, a charity that provides support and services to veterans and homeless and underserved youth. 10431 Twin Rivers Rd., Columbia. 6p.m.–9p.m. $75. 

11/11: Le Diner Bleu
Dress your best at this black-tie optional event (with a splash of “Bleu” required) where you will get the chance to dance the night away after a luxurious dinner. The event is held at a secret location, and will feature a silent auction and entertainment, including a special performance from Grammy- and Oscar-winning artist Regina Bell. Proceeds will benefit the CADE Foundation, an organization that works to help families overcome infertility. Secret Location. $150 –$250.