With July looming around the horizon, that means that Independence Day is right around the corner, and you know what that means: making s’mores, barbecuing in the backyard, enjoying patriotic themed desserts, and (of course) firework displays. While it may seem easy to stuff your schedule to the brim with an assortment of fun summertime activities, deciding exactly what you want to do on this special occasion can be a somewhat daunting task.

Although it’s nearly impossible to go wrong with a festive day filled with good food, time well spent with family and friends, and a fireworks display in the evening, it’s always a good idea to have a plan in place that allows everyone to enjoy activities they love. If you have a penchant for putting on huge displays of celebration for our fine nation’s birthday, why not check out this list of seven patriotic – yet also really fun – activities that you can plan for this 4th of July? 

Sandy July 4th Celebration

Sandy greets 4th of July with a bang! At this historic Independence Day tradition found in the fine city of Sandy, Utah, you will find a culmination of patriotic and family friendly activities to enjoy either by yourself or with everyone you love. These exciting things include a 5K fun run in the morning, a youth craft fair in the afternoon (complete with face painting, arts and crafts, food, and other fun attractions), and of course, the 4th of July parade and fireworks show once the sun goes down.

Rodeo, Grand Parade, Fireworks and More in West Jordan

Nothing encompasses the true American spirit quite like a rodeo, and the city of West Jordan is fully aware of this. That’s why they’re proud to make their Independence Day Festival and Western Stampede part of their annual tradition, and with so many fun things lined up, you’ll be entertained all day long. From the parade starting bright and early at 10:30 a.m. to a fireworks display at Veterans Memorial Park at 11:00 p.m, be sure to pencil this all-day event into your calendar this year.

Pancake Breakfast

For an eventful day such as this, a heavy breakfast with pancakes and eggs can go a long way to keep you energized.  So if you fancy yourself a delicious breakfast that includes all you can eat pancakes, bacon, and sausage, head over to Fist Annual 4th of July Pancake Breakfast at 08:30 in the morning.

Parade at Murray’s Fun Days

As the city of Murray’s longest-standing Fourth of July tradition, Murray Fun Days can be traced all the way back to 1958 and still continues to go strong. Events kick off at 7:00 in the morning with a Sunrise Service at Murray Park Amphitheater and include a delicious breakfast hosted by the Rotary Club. A 5K walk and run and a chalk art competition round out the morning, and be sure to catch the parade while here. And of course, like all good Independence Day celebrations, you’ll want to stick around for the fireworks at 10:00 p.m., too!

Magna 4th of July 5K

If you are anything like the participants of Magna 4th of July 5k then you must be looking forward to a healthy and energetic start to your holiday. The Magna 5k run/walk starts bright and early at 6 AM from Magna Copper Park and a fun kids run will be held at 10 AM. All participants will be awarded with a finisher’s medal and a breakfast ticket to “Chuck Wagon Breakfast”. This will be a great way to make some room in your belly if you are planning on smashing hot dogs and burgers later. So what are you waiting for? 

America’s Freedom Festival at Provo

If you and your family are looking to make things a bit grand this year then you can never go wrong with the 3-day freedom festival in Provo. Fortunately, since all the events are spanning across several days, you don’t have to worry about trying to cram it all into just one afternoon. Activities include a softball tournament, their Freedom Run, and even a children’s parade. What the biggest draw is, though, is the Stadium of Fire – the biggest stadium fireworks show in the entire nation!

Head to The Gateway

When it comes to celebrating Independence day, The Gateway puts on a show that is quite praise worthy. Head to the on-site bars, restaurants, and food trucks for food and libations, or check out various selections of craft beer offered by Bohemian brewery. There will be two stages setup for karaoke and live music if you want to jam out to some sweet tunes while munching on your food. Kids and adults alike can enjoy a wide selection of outdoor games and activities like face painting and more.

Liberty Days at Heritage Park

If you are looking to fill your 4th of July Celebrations this year with activities that are in-line with traditional American values, then head over to Liberty Days at Heritage Park. Guests have a host of different events to choose from including a flag ceremony, watermelon eating contest, candy cannon, parade, and more. The eventful ceremony will kick off at 10:00 am and go until 5 in the evening. 

4th of July Virtual Run

If you are having to stay at home or at work on the 4th of July but do not want to miss participating with the community in the celebration of America’s birth, then we have just the event for you. Around The World is organizing a virtual run for patrons who can choose from 1M, 5K, 10K, 13.1K, or 26.2K walk/run. You can finish the run on your own and submit the results to the organizers who will later send you a medal. 

At least 15% of the proceeds from registrations will be donated to Homes For Our Troops, a charity that helps build homes for severely injured veterans. This event is a great way to kick off the day and also give something back to our troops who fought for this country. 

Celebrate This 4th of July With a Bang!

Whether you want to reminisce about the birth of our nation by yourself or with your family, Salt Lake City has many venues to offer. Be it awe-inspiring displays of fireworks or events filled with old-fashioned activities that reflect on this nation’s great history, there is something for each and every family member to enjoy on Independence day.