4th of July Celebrations in Birmingham

Independence Day Celebrations are happening all week long, which is great if you’re looking for an excuse to see as many fireworks as possible.

Take a look at what’s happening around Birmingham to celebrate July 4th!

I Love America Summer Celebration – Wald Park
The 33rd Annual I Love America Summer Celebration will include, Free Swimming, Expo Fair, Children’s Activities by Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church, Pops in the Park by Shades Mountain Baptist Church Orchestra and the movie Frozen will be shown at 8:15 pm. Presented by Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce and Vestavia Hills Public Services. *Please note: NO pets allowed.
July 2nd
6pm – 10pm

Fireworks at Oak Mountain
Oak Mountain State Park, as part of Alabama State Parks 75th Anniversary, along with the City of Pelham are hosting food, fun, and fireworks. Food and music begins at 6:00 p.m. Johnny Rays and McAlister’s will be here.
A wakeboarding demonstration by Flip Side Watersports, Oak Mountain’s newest attraction, will take place at 7:00 p.m.
Fireworks will shoot off at 9:00 p.m. Prime viewing will be on the beach. Plan to be in the park by 8:00 p.m. to see the show.
July 3rd

Helena
The Helena First Friday events happen once a month in Old Town Helena where local merchants stay open late and vendors set up booths in the downtown area. There will be food vendors, live music and more.
It concludes with a fireworks show around 8:30 or 9 p.m.
July 3rd

The Big Kaboom – City of Chelsea
The event will officially begin at 8:00 PM in Chelsea Park, but people tend to arrive early and bring folding chairs and blankets. Fireworks will kick off at 9:00 PM  and will last about 20 minutes. Food vendors will be available. If the water tower at Chelsea Park is in sight, the fireworks should be visible. There’s a big field at U.S. Highway 280 and Highway 440 for spectators
July 3rd

Thunder on the Mountain from Vulcan
A Birmingham tradition for decades, Thunder on the Mountain is the city’s annual fireworks display and the biggest in the state of Alabama! Not only does Vulcan Park and Museum organize this magnificent show, but Vulcan is the centerpiece of the program. Make sure you make Vulcan a part of your Independence Day tradition!
Friday, July 4 at 9 p.m.

Some FAQ’s about Thunder on the Mountain:

• Can I watch the fireworks from Vulcan Park and Museum?
  No. The fireworks are launched from the park grounds of Vulcan Park and Museum. For safety purposes, Vulcan Park and Museum and its surrounding 10-acre park will close to the public at 6:00 pm on July 4. At this time, the entire park grounds and parking lots will be cleared out and closed.
• Where is the best place to view the fireworks?
  For the best viewing experience, make sure you have a clear view of Vulcan! Prime viewing locations include Five Points South, Homewood, Vestavia, Mountain Brook, UAB campus, among others. Based on growing crowds in recent years, organizers are advising spectators to stake out a viewing point well in advance of the 9:00 pm show.
• Will the show be cancelled in the event of rain?
  No. Thunder on the Mountain 2014 will continue rain or shine! However, the show may be cancelled in the event of severe weather conditions.

Independence Day at American Village
Events happening at the institution along Highway 119 in Montevallo from noon until the fireworks erupt after dark.
Admission is $5 per person. Veterans and active members of the military, as well as children ages 4 and younger are free.
Events include 18th century games, an Independence Ball, Revolutionary Army drills and entertainment from costumed historical interpreters. There will be plenty to eat thanks to Full Moon BBQ and other tasty treats available.
Gates open at 11 a.m. on July 4