New Orleans Fourth of July

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We don't have to tell you that NOLA is a go-to for a good party, but we will point out that the city's particular blend of humans and their accompanying cultures create a particularly colorful brand of patriotism. Spend your fourth in this America, at any of these fantastic 'fourth' events.

3rd of July in City Park

July 3: Yes, you can celebrate our great nation on July 4, but you can also show your pride year-round—July 3 included, at City Park in New Orleans. Bring your chairs and blankets to enjoy patriotic music with Marine Forces Reserve Rock Band  on the Goldring/Woldenberg Great Lawn and fireworks at the Peristyle. Bring a picnic. A dress code of red, white, and blue is definitely recommended. 6:30 pm—9:15 pm. Free and open to to the public. neworleanscitypark.com.

St. Charles Independence Day Celebration

July 3: St. Charles Parish will hold its annual Independence Day celebration at West Bank Bridge Park, featuring performances by popular band The Electrix Band and food and drinks sold by local nonprofit organizations. A firework show closes out the night at 9 pm. 4:30 pm. Free. stcharlesparish.gov.

Go Fourth on the River

July 4: The Mississippi River has long linked the people of this region to the rest of America, and on our great country's birthday, the people of New Orleans invite all to Go Fourth in celebration. Come down earlier in the day to experience the fabulous attractions/shopping along the Riverfront! Then, starting at 9 pm on both sides of the Great Mississippi, fireworks will shoot and scream and burst in to the sky from the banks and from barges, accompanied by a medley of patriotic songs. Settle in between Governor Nichols St. Wharf and Canal St. Dock. Free. go4thontheriver.com.

4th of July on the Creole Queen

July 4: Celebrate independence on the open water, watching fireworks from the decks of the paddlewheeler Creole Queen. This dinner cruise—which sets sail complete with special buffet menu, open call brand bar, and live entertainment—offers the best seat in the house to view the "Dueling Barges" fireworks display that the City of New Orleans puts on above the Mississippi. $149 per adult, $69 for youth (ages 6–12), and $20 for children (ages 3–5). Boarding from 7 pm to 8 pm, located at Poydras St. Wharf/Spanish Plaza. The riverboat sets sail following the fireworks display. Reservations are required: creolequeen.com.