The smell of stale, warm beer fills the air. The crackle of firecrackers can be heard in the distance. A haze of colors fills the sky.
No, you’re not at war. You’re partying – American style.
These sights, smells and sounds means that the 4th of July is here. It’s America’s birthday (sort of) and instead of candles, we light fireworks. For most of your life, you’ve likely spent this holiday with your family – at the beach, or on the lake, or just with the neighborhood.
But this time is different. You’re staying in Columbus, and you need plans – stat. No young person wants to sit and watch this amazing holiday pass by them, so here are eight different ways to celebrate the fourth in Columbus this year:
Red White & BOOM has music, activities and fireworks
Columbus is a special place to be on America’s Independence Day. Over 400,000 people flock to the city for Red White & BOOM – the largest 4th of July celebration in the entire Midwest!
The event takes place the day before the holiday on the third, but don’t let that deter you from going. Last year’s event was sponsored by familiar brands and faces: Yuengling beer, Pepsi, NBC4, Meijer and WNCI 97.9, to name a few.
It’s an all-day event. The festivities start at 11 a.m. with the fireworks kicking off at 10 p.m. Live music performers have not been announced, but there will be two different stages jam packed with action all day long.
Other than music – BOOM has all-day entertainment. Enjoy live broadcasts of NBC4 and WCNI 97.9 leading up to the huge parade at 5 p.m.
Since the event is ad-hoc and mainly parade and festival oriented, there’s no “admission charge,” per se, but you’ll need to arrive early to the event to claim a spot, so be proactive! Answers to other logistical questions of the event can be found here.
Doo Dah Parade lets you show your weird side
The rah-rah fourth of July vibes aren’t for everyone.
For those who prefer something on the quirkier side, something more artistic, check out the Doo Dah parade.
The event is entering its fortieth year of operation and takes homage from a parade of the same name started in Pasadena, California that began in 1978.
The parade takes place in Short North and is a celebration of political satire. For example, a long-standing tradition in the event are the Marching Fidels, who dress like Fidel Castro and his regime and take siestas along the parade route, forcing others to join via “conscription.” It’s all one big gimmick, and a fun one at that!
The line-up for the parade begins at noon on Park Street, and marching starts at 1 p.m. with the national anthem. There’s also an after party in Glendale park lasting until 8 p.m. More info for the event can be found at doodahparade.com and admission is free!
Have a barbecue
The Fourth of July is the perfect time for a barbecue with friends and family. Grill up some burgers, hot dogs, and other classic barbecue foods, and enjoy them in your backyard or at a local park.
Visit a patriotic attraction
Columbus is home to several patriotic attractions that are perfect for celebrating the Fourth of July. The Ohio History Center is a great place to learn about the history of the United States and the role that Ohio has played in it. The center features exhibits on the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, and more.
Have a picnic
Pack a picnic basket with sandwiches, fruit, and other snacks, and head to a local park to enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the sun. Columbus has many beautiful parks to choose from, including Goodale Park, Schiller Park, and Whetstone Park.
Go to a baseball game
What could be more American than going to a baseball game on the Fourth of July? The Columbus Clippers, the city’s minor league baseball team, usually have a home game on Independence Day.
Attend a concert
Many cities and towns hold concerts on the Fourth of July as a way to celebrate the holiday. In Columbus, there are several options to choose from, such as the Columbus Symphony Orchestra’s Independence Day concert at the Ohio Theatre.
Have a pool party
If the weather is hot and sunny, why not celebrate the Fourth of July with a pool party? Invite friends and family over to your backyard pool, or head to a local pool or water park to cool off and have some fun.
No matter how you choose to celebrate the Fourth of July in Columbus, make sure to show your patriotism and appreciation for the freedoms and opportunities that this country has to offer. Have a safe and happy Independence Day!