Over the last several years, many cities have attempted to have their own fireworks displays. These were usually started because of citizens who wanted to have a 4th of July celebration in their own community. The costs were typically covered by fundraising, government/municipal budgets and/or corporate sponsorships. With many cities facing financial difficulties, fireworks displays are becoming harder to find. In addition to budget problems, cities have found that there are many obstacles to overcome with firework celebrations. Things like logistics, safety and crowd control.
For most Americans fireworks on the fourth are a tradition. The 4th of July without fireworks is like apple pie without ice cream, or a picnic without barbecue. Fortunately the tradition goes on in many Michigan cities.
- Mackinac Island - Historic Mackinac is probably the best place in Michigan to celebrate Independence Day. The island will be decked out in red, white and blue, and the celebration will include a parade, music, dancing, a 38 gun salute and a grand picnic. The day will end with fireworks at dusk.
- Detroit - Take the family to Comerica Stadium to watch the Detroit Tigers challenge the Cleveland Indians. At the end of the game, there will be a spectacular fireworks display hosted by Verizon Wireless. The game begins @ 7:05 p.m.
- Grand Haven (about 30 miles from Grand Rapids) - Fireworks will be held at dusk at the Waterfront Stadium in downtown Grand Haven. They also have a musical fountain - that is water and lights synchronized to music. The musical fountain show will begin at 9:45 p.m. and the fireworks show immediately following.
- Kalamazoo - Head to the Kalamazoo Speedway for great fun on the 4th. Sponsored by Belle Tire there will be spectator drags and truck competitions, along with fantastic fireworks. The cost for admission is $15 for adults, and $5 for children.
- Muskegon - Hosts a firework celebration downtown every night beginning on June 28 and ending on July 8. The fireworks are in conjunction with the cities “big party” also known as Summer Celebration. There is a big fireworks show on the 4th of July as well. The show can be seen from pretty much anywhere in downtown Muskegon or around Muskegon Lake.
- Holland - Family fun can be had beginning at 5 p.m. at Kollen Park. The celebration will include music, games and fireworks (beginning at 10 p.m.) Admission is free.
- Lansing - Head to Oldsmobile Park to watch the Lansing Lugnuts vs. the South Bend Silver Hawks. Immediately following the game there will be a fireworks show. Game tickets range from $7-$9 per person.
- Rothbury - About 20 miles north of Muskegon is another fantastic place to celebrate the 4th. Known for its exciting rodeos, horseback riding and great golf, the Double JJ Resort is a great place to spend your 4th of July vacation. Fireworks will be on the ranch at dusk.
- Battle Creek - Home of the Kellogg Company, will host the Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show and Balloon Festival beginning Friday, June 29 and ending on the 4th. The 4th is Children’s Day. Tony the Tiger will be in attendance, and there will be balloon launches, a dog show, hay rides, a coloring contest, motorcycle stunts and much more. Admission is $5 on the 4th and all activities will take place at the W.K. Kellogg Airport. The fireworks show will begin at 10 p.m.
