John Adams famously quipped that he hoped the anniversary of America’s independence would be marked by “pomp and parades,” “guns”, “bonfires” and “illuminations” for years to come. Gwinnett County is bursting with Fourth of July events, particularly on this, the bicentennial celebration of the county – we’ve got pomp, parades and illuminations in every corner of our community (but leave your guns at home). President Adams would be proud.
**Be sure to check the Google for event details – some venues shoot fireworks on Independence Day, some on Independence Day Eve.
Gwinnett Stripers Post-Game Fireworks
Coolray Field | Lawrenceville
What could possibly be more American than taking in a baseball game and fireworks on the Fourth? Pack up the family and head out to Coolray to cheer on the Stripers (one P, folks) against those dastardly Norfolk Tides. If you make it through all nine innings (and possibly a few more), you’ll be rewarded with a complimentary firework show. First pitch is at 7:05 pm.
Fantastic Fourth Celebration
Stone Mountain Park | Stone Mountain
Make it an all-day celebration! The park opens at 10 am, with the famed laser show and fireworks beginning at 9 pm. Memorial Lawn (the grassy area at the base of the mountain, under the carving) offers the best views. A crisp Hamilton will get you and anyone you can safely fit into your vehicle access. Arrive early to ensure finding a spot. (Insider’s tip: they do this every weekend in the summer. Pick a less crowded night.)
Light up the Lake
7000 Lanier Islands Parkway | Buford
Although there will be many events taking place on the lake for the Fourth, the largest firework display in North Georgia is Light Up the Lake, hosted by Lake Lanier Islands. All-day live entertainment, games and family fun will precede the fireworks extravaganza.
Star Spangled Fourth
Mall of Georgia | Buford
Outdoor fun, live music and fireworks, PLUS a post-boom movie on the lawn. Touted as Gwinnett’s largest fireworks display, the Mall of Georgia’s Star Spangled Fourth does not disappoint. Thousands (no exaggeration) gather at the mall for this Independence Day extravaganza, so prepare yourself for crowds and traffic. There is a viewing area near the outdoor movie screen and kid’s zone, but anywhere on the rear side of the mall should offer a great view of the display.
Prelude to the 4th
210 Luckie Street | Lawrenceville
The City of Lawrenceville will host its annual rain-or-shine fireworks show on the Lawrenceville Lawn on July 3 (hence the “prelude”). This year’s event features special performances by Maggie Baugh and The Swinging Medallions, as well as a tribute to Gwinnett’s 200 years of history, an honor guard, food trucks and beverages, PLUS Prelude’s largest fireworks spectacular yet! The Gwinnett Historic Courthouse lawn will likely be a prime viewing spot as the pre-fireworks concert will be held there as well, but anywhere in downtown Lawrenceville should offer a great view.