After the hot dogs have been eaten and the parades have marched by, there’s only one way to close out the perfect Fourth of July – a show-stopping, heart-pounding, fantastic fireworks display.
All over the state you’ll find communities showing off their spirit with awesome fireworks shows – and as an extra bonus for families, many of these events offer kid-friendly activities, games and more to keep the celebration going all evening. Check out where to find some of Wisconsin’s best!
Northern Wisconsin
Green Bay
Boasting the biggest fireworks display north of Milwaukee, Fire Over the Fox is a daylong festival packed with a lineup of national acts, ceremonies and salutes, food and carnival rides. Don't miss the waterski show on the Fox River!
Egg Harbor's fireworks display over the bay was voted the best in Door County. The fireworks shoot off on July 3rd, and a lively Independence Day parade kicks off festivities on the Fourth. Other highlights include food, music and a performance by the UW-Madison Marching Band.
La Pointe
La Pointe’s parade on Madeline Island is a must-see. The eclectic floats, prizes for best displays and music from Big Top Chautauqua musicians have made this unique parade a favorite Wisconsin Fourth of July celebration for locals and visitors alike.
Central Wisconsin
Stevens Point
It’s a full weekend of fun at the Riverfront Rendezvous, when Pfiffner Pioneer Park hosts dozens of live music performances on three stages. Check out the trivia contest or comedy show and quench your thirst with a local beer from Stevens Point Brewery. Bring the little ones along for games and join in the pickleball tournament. Fireworks and a lighted boat parade are the main events on Sunday night.
Appleton
Get to Memorial Park early for a good seat at the Fox Cities area's biggest fireworks display. Highlights include live bands, a children's activity area, carnival games and food vendors, with all proceeds going to the Appleton Area Jaycees.
Wisconsin Dells
Downtown Dells hosts one of the most spectacular displays in Wisconsin. Over 1,300 fireworks will be launched at this year’s Fireworks Extravaganza, making the gigantic display visible from just about anywhere within the city limits. If you’re heading downtown, be sure to find your spot before dusk to enjoy on-site refreshments and activities for the whole family!
Southern Wisconsin
Milwaukee
Milwaukee’s lakefront will be ablaze during the U.S. Bank Fireworks at the Lakefront at Veterans Park. Pack some snacks, a blanket and a lawn chair or two and come to Milwaukee for one of the most popular Fourth of July fireworks shows. Words of wisdom – come early for a prime spot and enjoy the Fireworks Kite Festival before the show.
Madison
Get tickets to Festival Foods Lights the Isthmus to celebrate Independence Day in Wisconsin’s capital city. The evening features a lineup of local bands, lots of food and beverages and (of course) a fireworks display that will have your eyes wide with wonder. Held at Breese Stevens Field, the event is family-friendly summer staple.
La Crosse
Farther west, La Crosse boasts Riverfest, a five-day festival along the Mississippi. The celebration features hypnotists, local and big-name bands, kids shows with magic and comedy, and lots and lots of food.
From giant inflatables to a Burger Bash, this event is chock full of unique family fun--there's even baby races! Where else can you see a pole-vaulting competition, enjoy live music and eat a fried pickle on a stick all in the same day?
Find even more fairs & festivals across Wisconsin!
