9 Ways to Celebrate Independence Day in the Southwest

On July 4, the United States celebrates its 238th birthday. Whether the Fourth of July kicks off your summer vacation or just have the day off, here are nine great ways to celebrate our amazing country.
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On July 4, the United States celebrates its 238th birthday. Whether the Fourth of July kicks off your summer vacation or just have the day off, here are nine great ways to celebrate our amazing country.

Arizona
Independence Day Music Festival, July 3
Scottsdale's Independence Day Music Festival boasts the largest fireworks show in the Valley and Phillip Phillips headlines this year's event. Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. saltriverfields.com

Light Up The Sky Festival, July 3
This family-friendly event offers games, activities, fireworks and above all, an opportunity for family and friends to gather to meet their neighbors to celebrate the true spirit of the holiday. Of course, the fireworks are the main attraction of this free festival. Maryvale Baseball Park, Phoenix. phoenix.gov/parks/calendar/index.html

Patriotic Laser Light Show, July 4
This free event offers up a spectacular laser light show and live music, as well as tasty food from local vendors. Arrive early and enjoy the two hour concert by David Parker & the Big Time - and it also means you get great seats for the light show. Red Rock High School, Baseball field. sedonachamber.com

Nevada

Independence Day Jubilee, July 3
This festival is all about the live music, with three live bands performing at this years event. Fireworks, a kids corner, teen zone, carnival midway, food and ice-cold beer round out the events and offerings. James Seastrand Park. cityofnorthlasvegas.com

Fourth of July in Las Vegas, July 4
The most epic party in all of the Western US will be right here in Vegas. From pool club parties, live shows (including Cirque de Soleil and David Spade), nightclubs, outstanding fireworks, barbeques and food festivals, the Strip has it all. vegas.com

Utah
Oakley Rodeo and 4th of July Celebration, July 3-5
Giddy up! The 79th annual running of this event is a fun and affordable way to celebrate Independence Day. Enjoy the fast paced rodeo events during the day and stay for the brilliant fireworks in the evening. Oakley, Utah. oakleycity.com

Park City 4th of July Parade and Celebration, July 4
This day is literally jam-packed with amazing activities, including a parade, beer gardens, live music, rugby matches, kids activities, pancake breakfast and fireworks at dusk. visitparkcity.com

California
Sacramento Independence Day Celebration, July 4
The largest-scale pyrotechnics display in the area's history is the highlight of this family-friendly celebration. Buy your tickets in advance and enjoy the lights and sounds of this huge outdoor party. Cal Expo. calexpo.com

Old-fashioned Independence Day, July 4
Step back in time with family parade, old-fashioned games, live music, games historic speeches and flag raising at this fun event. Pack a picnic or enjoy the delicious on-site food. Really take part in the festivities by dressing up and taking part in the parade yourself! Wilder Ranch State Park. parks.ca.gov

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