As a kid, summer officially began when school let out for summer - but as an adult, it really feels more like it begins on the Fourth of July! Something about those colorful "bombs bursting in air" just seems to presage two months of fun in the sun ahead of us. And as that day gets closer, I'm usually found googling, Where to watch fireworks near me. It turns out that in Iowa, the answer is - all around! The Hawkeye State's biggest cities are full of amazing fireworks displays taking place on the Fourth and in the week before it, and many of these events have so much more going on than just fireworks. We've found the best events in Iowa's major cities, as well as in some amazing laid-back vacation destinations, and we're pretty sure you're covered for an amazing Fourth!

1. Lake Manawa Fireworks

The official Fireworks celebration for Council Bluffs, this event is kicking off its 75th anniversary show in 2024 and takes place on June 30th with a rain date of July 7. This is expected to be the biggest show yet, with fireworks kicking off at 9:45 at night. This event is entirely put together by a local non-profit group and is located at Lake Manawa State Park, so it's one of the most laid-back of the shows we're spotlighting. Discover more about this event on the Lake Manawa Fireworks website.

2. Yankee Doodle Pops

Taking place on July 3, this is the event of the year at the Des Moines Symphony. Held outside the Iowa State Capitol, it's a massive concert of patriotic music followed by one of the most impressive fireworks displays in Iowa. This event is open to the public and completely free, so come early and bring a picnic! You can find out more on the website of the Des Moines Symphony.

3. Red White and Boom!

The largest fireworks show in the Quad Cities, this July 3 event takes place on two barges in the Mississippi River and is visible from LeClaire Park and Schwiebert Riverfront Park. There will be live music, a kids' play area, and food vendors on hand before the big show. Find out more on the official website of Red White and Boom!

4. All American Extravaganza

Held in Altoona at the Prairie Meadows Casino and Racetrack, this all-day event takes place on July 3 and features live racing and music along with a large collection of food vendors. Then at dusk, the skies over the tracks turn into an amazing display of colors as the fireworks get started. Unlike many of the things going on at this complex, this is an entirely family-friendly event, and the best fireworks display near Adventureland. Read more on the Prairie Meadows website.

5. 4th Of July Fireworks Over Okoboji

It wouldn't be the Fourth of July without an event taking place at the Iowa Great Lakes. Held following The Rolling Stoners concert at Arnolds Park Amusement Park, this fireworks show over West Okoboji Lake is funded entirely by donors and is one of the highlights of the summer at this popular vacation spot. It's a free event, but donations help keep it rolling! Find out more at the Okoboji Chamber of Commerce website.

6. Celebrating American Independence

A five-day summer festival in Clear Lake, this charming small-town event kicks off with a summer market and a 5k race, followed by days of carnivals and live entertainment. Then it all comes to a head on July Fourth with a massive fireworks festival over Clear Lake. The rest of the week is devoted to family activities, so you'll definitely want to stick around. Check out the Clear Lake website for the full schedule.

7. Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival

One of the biggest events in Iowa all summer, the Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival is a three-week end running through June. However, the big party is coming on July Fourth, as they celebrate America's birthday with a 5k run, a pancake breakfast, a concert, and of course, one of the most stunning fireworks displays in Iowa! See the full schedule on the Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival website.

We hope this answers your question regarding where to watch fireworks near me! We can't wait to hear about your Fourth of July plans in the comments section! If you're going to be in the Quad Cities for the Fourth, why not spend some time on a patriotic activity in the region like the George M. Verity Riverboat Museum, which delves into the history of the region? And if you'd like to show your Iowa pride alongside your American pride, you can get some fantastic attire at Wear Your Roots.