New Orleans 4th of July
As expected, New Orleans doesn’t disappoint when it comes to Independence Day. One of the most beloved celebrations is the Dueling Barges Fireworks Show that begins at 9pm with an aerial display lasting up to 20 minutes. Once the sonic booms have quieted, many revelers head to the French Quarter to keep the party going. This fireworks show is consistently ranked as one of the 20 best in the region by the Southeast Tourism Society, and the American Pyrotechnics Association calls is one of the five top displays in the country.
You can see the show from many places in the city, with Woldenberg Park, close to the Spanish Plaza, offering some of the best views. Crescent Park, hugging the Bywater neighborhood, is another excellent choice. Others head to Algiers Point to take advantage of the city skyline views also, and it’s just a quick trip on the Canal Street Ferry.
Celebration Stations
Book a trip on either the Natchez or Creole Queen riverboat paddlewheelers to really see the show up close. Dinner and live entertainment are on board, along with patriotic music playing throughout the fireworks display. You might also want to double down on the parties with the Essence Festival June 30-July 3 with Mariah Carey, Ciara and Kendrick Lamar performing this year.
From hot dogs at Dat Dog to strolling through the Audubon Park, there are many ways to celebrate. Where will you start?