Michigan’s Most Spectacular July 4th Fireworks Shows: 8 You Won’t Want to Miss

Summertime in Michigan is filled with festivals and other outdoor activities. There's a good reason for that. The summer weather in Michigan is near perfection. No one wants to be cooped up inside; they want to be in the great outdoors, living their best lives possible. At night, my favorite way to do this is by taking in breathtaking fireworks. I've always loved them. The loud booms shake my entire body. The sky lights up with color. Sometimes, even, it looks like glitter falling from the sky. It's magical. Looking to find some of that magic for yourself? Well, if you want to watch fireworks in Michigan, I've compiled a list of some of the best places to do so!

1. Salute to America at Greenfield Village, Dearborn, Michigan

The night skies in Dearborn light up each night between July 2 and 5 for an astounding fireworks celebration. Partnering with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, The Henry Ford Museum has created a truly unforgettable way to celebrate Independence Day. You can also hear a live orchestra performance, summer street food, and free carousel rides onstage. Tickets start around $31/person—visit the Henry Ford Museum website to learn more.

2. Kalamazoo Speedway Fireworks

Held on July 4, the Kalamazoo Speedway Fireworks have to be seen to be believed. This is an all-day event with racing, appearances from NASCAR drivers, and more. Doors open at 2 pm, racing starts at 7 pm, and the fireworks begin at dusk.

3. Bay City Fireworks Festival—Bay City, Michigan

Celebrate America at the Bay City Fireworks festival from July 2nd to 4th at Veterans Memorial Park and Wennona Park. Fireworks will go off each night over the entire festival, and each day, families can enjoy carnival games and rides, fair food, live music and performances, and much more! It's a whole bunch of fun for everyone, and tickets start at only $30 per person. For more timing information, a schedule of events, and to purchase tickets, visit Bay City Fireworks' website.

4. Brilliance Over the Bay Fireworks Show—Petoskey, Michigan

Head to Petoskey's Bayfront Park for a spectacular 4th of July fireworks display. The grand celebration takes place annually on the night of the 4th, and people gather on blankets and lawn chairs to watch the show. The fireworks launch off the shores of Little Traverse Bay. Food and beverages will be available for sale, too.

5. 4th of July on Mackinac Island—Mackinac Island, Michigan

The Fourth of July is a sight to behold on the beautiful Mackinac Island. The town goes all out for Independence Day, with three days full of family fun and activities across the entire island. Local restaurants and businesses will offer special themed meals and deals in the days leading up to the 4th, culminating in old-fashioned carnival games at Windermere Point, live music at Fort Mackinac, a hot dog-eating contest, drum concert, and much more. The grand finale is a fireworks display over State Park Marina.

6. Amway Family Fireworks—Grand Rapids, Michigan

The entire town of Grand Rapids will transform into an Independence Day wonderland on the fourth. It can get pretty crowded at this annual event, so arriving early to find parking is advised. Once you've posted up, enjoy a spectacular fireworks display near Riverbank Events and Media, where you can also hear live music and enjoy food and games for the kids. Visit the City of Grand Rapids website to learn more.

7. Fourth of July Celebration—Grand Marais, Michigan

A silent auction, parade, pie sale, and street dance make up this fantastic annual event in Grand Marais. The event culminates in a huge fireworks display over West Bay on Lake Superior—an ideal waterfront viewing point. You can easily view this show from Harbor Park or Agate Beach, which is just minutes from the launch point in West Bay. For parking, maps, and more info, visit Grand Marais' website.

8. Air Show + Balloon Festival—Battle Creek, Michigan

July 1 to 5 is always fun-filled at the annual Air Show and Balloon Festival in Battle Creek. Enjoy a military fighter jet air show, a hot air balloon show, carnival games, food and drinks, vendors, a marathon, a 5K race, and a stage featuring live music for the entire four days. Two evenings of fireworks make up this event: both at Battle Creek Executive Airport at Kellogg Field.

No matter where you choose to watch fireworks in Michigan, you have many options to choose from. Additionally, some cities are offering drone shows for those who are not into the big booms and loud noises. Yes, drones are for more than taking some (pretty cool) videos of the state. If you want to experience a drone show, visit the Cadillac, Michigan, Freedom Fest on July 5 for a spectacular drone display.