10 Biggest Fourth of July Events in the U.S.

If you're looking to hit the biggest and best Independence Day parties in 2008, then you've come to the right spot. These cities know how to throw a great patriotic birthday party, with the biggest fireworks, the best food and the most diverse activities around.

America's Freedom Festival at Provo

Where: Provo, Utah

When: July 3-5, 2008

Website: http://freedomfestival.org/

According to Wikipedia, this festival is one of the largest freedom festivals in the United States. The festival kicks off with the beginning of Freedom Days on July 3^rd, a popular fair which is free to the public. The Stadium of Fire event is the climax of the festival. This year's event will be hosted by Glenn Beck and will feature performances by the Blue Man Group and pop sensation Miley Cyrus.

Macy's Fireworks Spectacular

Where: New York, New York

When: July 4, 2008, 9:00 p.m.

Website: http://www.ny.com/holiday/july4/

Media Coverage: NBC (nationally)

This is the world's largest fireworks display, so if you're in the area, you won't want to miss it! More than 20,000 aerial shells and special effects will be shot from four strategically placed barges on the East River between 23^rd and 42^nd Streets. There are several spots from which you'll get a great view, including FDR Drive from 14^th to 42^nd Streets, Hunter's Point, Greenpoint, Brooklyn, Queens and from watercraft. If you choose to watch from the water, remember: all watercraft must stay south of the Williamsburg Bridge or north of the southernmost tip of Roosevelt Island. Boaters can get more information by calling the Macy's Marine Hotline at (212) 494-5247.

The Boston Harborfest

Where: Boston, Massachusetts

When: July 1 - 6, 2008

Website: http://www.july4th.org/

Media Coverage - Fireworks Only: WBZ-TV (local) or CBS (national)

As a central point in the American Revolution, Boston knows how to throw a great Independence Day bash! This week-long festival includes more than anyone could possibly see or do, and a little something for everyone. Some highlights include sailing adventures, whale watching, a re-enactment of the Boston Tea Party and more. If you're bringing children to the festivities, then don't miss the Children's Day celebration on July 2^nd. The Fourth of July culminates in the Fireworks On The Esplanade, choreographed to the music of the Boston Pops Orchestra. The Boston Harborfest is held in downtown Boston. Whether you're a native Bostonian or a tourist, you'll probably want to take Boston's MBTA subway system to avoid major headaches and traffic congestion.

Welcome America! Philadelphia

Where: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

When: June 28 - July 6, 2008

Website: www.americasbirthday.com

Where better to celebrate our country's birthday than in the city of its birth? After visiting the Liberty Bell and the historic sites in the Independence Mall (which has extended hours for patriotic guests this week), you'll be ready to hit the festivities at Philly's week-long festival. On July 4, enjoy the Sweet Sounds of Liberty Concert & Fireworks with an impressive display over the Delaware River.

A Capitol Fourth: America's Independence Day Celebration

Where: Washington, D.C.

When: July 4, 2008

Website: http://www.pbs.org/capitolfourth/

Media Coverage: PBS (national), NPR (national) and the AFN (military)

This annual event occurs every year in our nation's capital from the lawn of the Capitol Building, with an attendance of more than 500,000. The stunning fireworks display is set to the music of the National Symphony Orchestra. Visitors can view the display, which is set over the National Monument, from the West Lawn of the Capitol Building.

Red, White & Boom!

Where: Columbus, Ohio

When: July 3, 2008

Website: http://www.redwhiteandboom.org/

Media Coverage: NBC 4 (national)

This year will mark the 28^th annual running of the Red, White & Boom! Festival, which occurs the last weekday prior the Independence Day. Enjoy the Taste of Boom! and Macy's Children's Park before settling in for the fireworks, set to be launched from the Veteran's Memorial on Broad Street in downtown Columbus. Dozens of parking areas are made available to the public for this event. If you want a great vantage point to check out the show, consider booking a room at the Doubletree Suites in downtown Columbus. Though the rooms can be hard to get, it is well worth the trouble.

Bristol Rhode Island's Fourth Of July Celebration

Where: Bristol, Rhode Island

When: July 3, 2008

Website: http://www.july4thbristolri.com/home.html

Media Coverage: WLNE-TV

Bristol has the unique distinction of holding the longest running Independence Day celebration, since 1785! Enjoy a wide variety of fun-filled events (including a concert by the Pat McGee band) before settling in for the fireworks. The spectacular display of fireworks will be launched over Bristol Harbor.

Disney-MGM Studios "Sorcery In The Sky"

Where: MGM Studios, Orlando, Florida

When: July 4, 2008, 9:00 p.m.

Website: www.disneycorner.com

No one knows magic quite like Disney, and the Fourth of July is no exception! Sorcery In The Sky is a dazzling fireworks display and "symphonic serenade", celebrating the special magic of cinema. MGM Studios is open until 10:00 p.m. on July 4^th to accommodate the fireworks display. While the best seats are inside the park and require admission, the show can be viewed from outside the gates.

America's Birthday Bash

Where: Miami, Florida

When: July 4, 2008, 3:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Website: http://4thofjulymegafest.com/4thMain.htm

Miami's Bayfront Park is a great place to spend the Fourth of July in 2008. The free Kid's Zone is lots of fun for the little ones without spending a lot of cash. After a day of food and fun at the festival, you can enjoy the brilliant Fireworks Extravaganza launched over the Biscayne Bay.

Star-Spangled Fourth: Lights On The Lake

Where: South Lake Tahoe, California

When:

Website: http://www.bluelaketahoe.com/page.php?p=july4

Media Coverage: KRLT-FM (local) and KOWL-AM (local)

South Lake Tahoe boasts the largest synchronized fireworks display west of the Mississippi, and the American Pyrotechnics Association rates it one of the top five displays in the nation. Any way you word it, this is one fiery display you won't want to miss. For a unique view of the award-winning action, check out fireworks cruises on Lake Tahoe paddlewheelers at www.laketahoecruises.com. For more traditional seating, stake your claim at the beach or at the Bijou Community Park, and enjoy!