Fireworks and all sorts of festivities are planned across Northeast Georgia this weekend to celebrate America’s 245th birthday.
Here’s a list of some of the places where you and your family can enjoy a fun Fourth:
Atlanta hosts some of the biggest Independence Day celebrations around. More than 200,000 people are expected to turn out July 3-4 for the AJC Peachtree Road Race — the largest 10K in the country. The race kicks off just before 7 a.m., so plan to get there early, especially if you want a coveted seat along the route. In the evening, get fired up at one of Metro Atlanta’s many fireworks celebrations, including events at Stone Mountain Park.
Dahlonega fireworks will light up the night sky on Sunday, July 4, at Iron Mountain Resort.
Demorest will host the return of its annual Glorious Fourth with a scaled-down celebration this year. Due to lack of participation, the city canceled its parade but will host a free concert and fireworks show on Sunday, July 4. The evening kicks off at 6:30 p.m. with hometown headliner John King in concert at Demorest Springs Park. Country music singer Gregg Erwin of Ellijay will also perform. After the concert, at dusk, the city will launch fireworks from the Brent Lee Moore Memorial Baseball Field behind Concord Baptist Church (old Demorest Elementary School) on Central Avenue.
Dillard will host a free fireworks display on Sunday, July 4, that will be visible for miles around. Park your car along Highway 441 North and get out your lawn chairs. The fireworks will begin around dusk. [If you’re hankerin’ for a party with live music, BBQ, and a mountaintop view of the pyrotechnics, visit the Dillard House online. Season 12 winner of The Voice, Chris Blue, will perform during the iconic restaurant’s July 4th extravaganza.]
Helen will celebrate with a fireworks display on Sunday, July 4. The fireworks will launch at dusk (9-9:30 p.m.) behind the Alpine Village Shoppes and Helen Welcome Center on Brucken Strasse but can be seen from almost any location in downtown Helen.
Hiawassee will host a spectacular fireworks display on Sunday, July 4 at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. There will be live music from 6-8:30 p.m. with a special performance by the Vintage Vixens. Fireworks begin at 9:45 p.m.
Homer will hold its Independence Day celebration on Sunday, July 4. The Homer Fire Department will sponsor a fireworks display at Banks County High School on State Route 164. Bring your lounge chairs and family for a fun-filled evening. Fireworks will be at dark. In the event of rain, the fireworks will be held on Monday, July 5.
Find more July Fourth events at www.exploregeorgia.org/calendar-of-events.
(photo courtesy Kyle Shook Photography)
