This Fourth of July, there are a number of places in Orlando to see some exciting fireworks! From the tourism of their theme parks, like Universal Studios and Disney World, which you will need to pay to get into, to the free displays at Lake Eola and Cranes Roost Park, there is something for everyone!
Parks
One very popular event each year in the Orlando area is 'Red Hot and Boom!' This free event takes place in Altamonte Springs (just down the road from Orlando) on July 3rd, in Cranes Roost Park. The festivities actually start at 4 p.m. and run until 11 p.m. (when the fireworks are over).
One draw of 'Red Hot and Boom!' is its live music. This year the entertainment includes musical groups Great Big World, Alex & Sierra and American Authors as well as Echosmith, Ingrid Michaelson and Alex Angelo. There are also plenty of food and drink vendors. The fireworks last for a full 25 minutes, and they are synchronized with a mix of current hits and patriotic tunes.
Or head to Fireworks at the Fountain, another free event, in Downtown Orlando. Fireworks at the Fountain takes place in Lake Eola Park. This festival takes place on the 4th, and features live entertainment, fun games and a number of food and drink vendors. The fun starts at 4 p.m. with fireworks beginning at 9:30 p.m., and it all concludes at 10 p.m.
Theme Parks
For those who love to celebrate 'big' on the Fourth, the theme parks in Orlando know how to party! At Sea World, the big fireworks display is included in the price of admission. Their fireworks include their amazing trained whales and a light spectacle in a new nighttime show. Additionally, at the end of the evening, they offer a patriotic-themed show that will feature live singers and a nine-piece band.
At Disney, the special fireworks display this year is at Hollywood Studios. This 'Rockin' Fourth of July' will take place at The Sorcerer's Hat at 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 p.m. There will be a concert (with a DJ) every hour on the hour, with fireworks to a rock soundtrack at 10:15 p.m.
Disney World will also put on a pretty major show, on both July 3rd and 4th. Both nights the fireworks will take place in the sky above Cinderella's Castle, at 9 p.m.
There will be a musical score of 'uplifting songs' to accompany the elaborate fireworks display.
Universal Studios Orlando is putting on a new version of their Universal 360. It is a laser light show with fireworks that will really amaze you! (Note that you do not need to purchase tickets to see Universal's show. Simply head to their CityWalk and watch from there! You may need to get there early if you want to find a place to sit (there are outdoor tables scattered about and ledges to sit on) but standing room is always good, too, especially for these magnificent fireworks.
No matter where you choose to go, you will not be disappointed this year in Orlando!
Image Credits
Flags by Roger Sadler
Magic Kingdom by Jeff Krause
Fireworks by Shootfilm