June 27, 2019
Where to see fireworks for July 4th this year
Avoid the crowds and try these options for day of celebrations
Merchant & Trade rooftop and covered terrace. Kristen Wile/UP
No matter what your preferred Fourth of July activity and celebration is, one thing is certain: Independence Day should not be celebrated without fireworks. If you are one of the few that brave large crowds to grab a coveted seat for ideal firework spectating hours in advance, we applaud you. For those wanting a great view with a few less people or a more low-key celebration, read on for our suggestions. —Justin Burke-Samson
SkyShow, BB&T Ballpark
9:30pm or when the Knights game is over, whichever is later
If you’re not attending the Knights versus Norfolk game or celebrating in Romare Bearden Park, we found a few rooftop restaurant and bar locations near the ballpark for firework viewing. The choices for rooftop views are sparse, and those available are higher end than a casual bar. The plus side, though, is less people, available food and drinks, and more comfortable seating arrangements.
Merchant & Trade
303 S. Trade Street
Rooftop lounge with covered terrace
Nuvole Rooftop Twenty Two
220 E. Trade Street
Luxury rooftop bar and dining room
Fahrenheit
222 South Caldwell Street
Panoramic sky bar and dining room
Fourth of July Celebration, Whitewater Center
Activities run from 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
This option doesn’t avoid crowds, but what we love about this celebration is it gets you out of the city. The day full of outdoor activities ends with a fireworks show over the water. We like the choice of being outdoors enjoying local beers and eating along the river, taking part in a few Whitewater activities, then ending the day with live music and a fireworks show. Like all Whitewater Center festivals, the celebration is free to attend (pay $6 for parking).
Celebrations worth mentioning
19th Annual Plaza Midwood Pig Pickin’ hosted by The Diamond
1901 Commonwealth Avenue
4 to 11 p.m.
The Diamond will host their annual parking lot party with live music and food, including a roasted whole hog with pulled pork plates and sandwiches as well as hot dogs.
4th of July Picnic at Town Brewing
800 Grandin Road
4 to 10 p.m.
Town Brewing is hosting a summer cook-out with All-American favorites. Enjoy food and Town Brewing beer before the SkyShow fireworks.
