by Tess Boardman

Created on: July 02, 2009

Over two hundred years ago, our country declared its independence, and in the birth of a nation, has given its citizens a reason to embrace and celebrate our freedom. With the best pyrotechinc displays, family events, and live music, these five cities have become the premier places to celebrate on July 4th.

1.New York City, New York

The size and scope of New York's celebration makes it one of the best and largest in the country. From a new location on the Hudson River, the

Macy's Fourth of July Fireworkswill light up the skyline with over 40,000 shells launched to patriotic and river themed music provided by the New York Pops under the direction of Steve Reineke. At a rate of 1500 shells per minute, this show will not disappoint the almost two million spectators the show of a lifetime. The move to the Hudson River celebrates the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson's cruise down the river in 1709 and this year's show will kick off 3 months of celebrations celebrating the founding of New Amsterdam and 400 years of history.

2.Boston, Massachusetts

What better place to celebrate our nation's independence than at symbolic birthplace of our stand on independence, Boston, Massachusetts. At the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular, you can enjoy the Boston Pops Orchestra under the direction of Keith Lockhart performing the National Anthem and Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture while 10,000 fireworks are set off in time to the music. Neil Diamond will join the celebration, entertaining the crowd with many of his classic hits.The celebration also features a flyover by 104thFighter Wing, the oldest National Guard unit and also the oldest flying unit within Massachusetts. The 101stField Artillery Regiment will provide the cannons for the 1812 Overture.

3. Walt Disney World, Lake Buena Vista, Florida

If family-orientated fun is what you are looking for, celebrate Independence Day at Disney Worldwith their Concert in the Sky, Fireworks show, street parties and parades. With many events scheduled throughout the parks, including a naturalization ceremony of over 1000 new citizens on July 3, 2009, there is something for everyone. This is a great place to go for all day family fun followed by a spectacular pyrotechnic display by a establishment that knows fireworks. The display will be presented on both Friday, July 3 & Saturday, July 4.

4. New Orleans, Louisiana

Join the festivities in the re-born city of New Orleans. The 19th Annual Go 4th on the Riverwill feature a Dueling Barges Extravaganza on the Mississippi River and will feature simulcast patriotic music in 38 states. This display is ranked fifth in the country by the American Pyrotechnic Association and will impress audiences with shells launched from two river barges as the city celebrates the 200thbirthday of Abraham Lincoln. Events along the waterfront start at noon with live music from four different stages.

5. Seattle, Washington

For those on the West coast, Seattle boasts an impressive display at the Chase Family Fourthat Lake Union. This display, promoted by Time magazine as one of the top 5 displays in the country, will feature a pyrotechnic show synchronized to classic, patriotic songs, anthems, and other music. Lake Union provides a natural amphitheater, showcasing the sounds of the show. Before the festivities begin, enjoy the many food vendors, family-orientated activities in the park, and even a lake view beer garden for the adults.

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