Missouri is known as the “Show Me” State, but when it comes to Independence Day fireworks celebrations, it’s their turn to show us. And, oh my, do they ever! From the Ozarks to Mark Twain’s hometown, Missouri’s night skies explode on the Fourth of July with colors as the state says, “Happy birthday, America!” Here are some of the best places to celebrate Independence Day in 2024 in Missouri.
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UPDATED: This post was first published in 2021, and has been updated in June 2024 with this year’s event details.
1. Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular
Where: St. Louis
As part of the Celebrate Saint Louis celebration, the Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular explodes above St. Louis with the iconic Arch and Mississippi River as backdrops. The largest fireworks show in the area starts at 9:40 p.m., featuring patriotic music as the sky lights up with vibrant colors.
The event traditionally includes pre-show music, food, and drinks. The Celebrate Saint Louis schedule also includes a parade on July 4. It starts at 10 a.m. and follows a downtown route along Market Street.
Where to stay: Festivities are held in downtown St. Louis, near The Gateway Arch. Look for available accommodations within walking distance to avoid parking headaches and traffic.
2. Branson Landing’s Liberty Light Up Concert and Fireworks
Where: Branson
With a concert featuring a live band, the Ozarks celebrates Independence Day with fireworks at Branson’s lake on July 3. The annual Branson Landing’s Liberty Light Up Concert and Fireworks event starts at 5:30 p.m. with a beer garden and live concert entertainment. Following the headlining concert at 8, the Ozarks’ night sky erupts with fireworks about 9:20 p.m. Be sure to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating.
Where to stay: Branson has a ton of hotels, though I recommend looking for ones conveniently located near Branson Landing.
3. Salute to America
Where: Jefferson City
Missouri’s capitol is the place to celebrate on July 4. Salute to America includes a carnival, music, food, and games from 2 to 10 p.m. on the Fourth. The annual Red, White and Bloom parade takes place at 11 a.m. on July 4, following a downtown route. The theme in 2024 is “Heroes Among Us.” The celebration concludes with a fireworks show at 9:45 p.m. July 4.
Where to stay: Choose a hotel close to the state capitol building to ensure you’re close to all the excitement.
4. Parkville 4th of July Celebration
Where: Parkville
Parkville, a suburb of Kansas City, is a fun city to celebrate Independence Day. The Parkville 4th of July Celebration kicks off every year with a 10 a.m. parade, beginning at 63rd Street and ending in Historic Downtown Parkville, along the Missouri River. Spend the day in Parkville, enjoying food, games, and other fun. The annual fireworks show lights up the sky at 9:45 p.m.
Where to stay: While it’s tempting to want to stay in the historic downtown area, your options are limited. Hotels are available a few miles outside of downtown, though.
5. Great American 4th of July Celebration
Where: Cape Girardeau
Nothing says July 4 like grabbing lunch from a food truck and checking out the murals along the Mississippi River. Cape Girardeau hosts the Great American 4th of July Celebration on July 4 with a concert and fireworks show.
This year, the schedule includes the food truck rally at Arena Park starting at 6 p.m., followed by patriotic music by the Cape Girardeau Municipal Band at 7:30 p.m. Fireworks are scheduled to start at 8:45 p.m.
Where to stay: Affordable accommodations are available near Arena Park!
6. 4th of July Fireworks
Where: St. Joseph
Spend Independence Day exploring St. Joseph’s attractions, such as the Pony Express National Museum and the downtown public art. Then, settle in for the City of St. Joseph 4th of July Fireworks show. The riverfront fireworks show starts about 15 minutes after dark. Best viewing areas are at the YMCA, Green Acres, Regal Hollywood Theater, and Kohl’s.
Where to stay: Look for accommodations close to the Missouri River. You’re not going to find something right on the riverfront, but there are options near it.
7. Tom Sawyer Days
Where: Hannibal
Nothing seems more Americana than celebrating Independence Day during the annual Tom Sawyer Days in Hannibal. The annual festival runs July 3-7, with Tom Sawyer- and Huck Finn-centric events, such as fence painting, carnival rides, and games. Independence Day festivities include a parade at 10 a.m., carnival, and a fireworks show.
Where to stay: Opt for accommodations near the Mississippi River. You’ll likely be close to all the festivities, then.
While communities statewide celebrate Independence Day with parades, food, and music, these seven cities offer a fireworks show that will be remembered long after the grand finale sizzles the night sky.
