4th of July Celebrations in Baltimore MD: What to Do, Where to Go, and More

The 4th of July fireworks at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor are a sensory overload in the best possible way—drones, symphonies, and bursts of color lighting up the skyline. The drone and fireworks display over the water begins at 9:30 p.m., but the festivities go strong from 3:00–10:00 p.m. all along the waterfront.

The Fourth of July fireworks are just the finale of a full day that kicks off with an afternoon picnic at West Shore Park, where food trucks, family-friendly vendors, and lawn games await. Get the party started early with DJ C. James at the Inner Harbor Amphitheater at 6:00 p.m., followed by a live band performance from Avenue 66 on the Waterfront Promenade.

Stake your claim along the Inner Harbor promenade for the best seats to the Star Spangled Celebration Concert by Baltimore Symphony Orchestra at Rash Field Park. Yes, it’s as magical as it sounds—and no, you definitely don’t want to miss it.

Dazzling fireworks, luxurious boat, delectable dessert, oh my! Fireworks on the Raven is Baltimore’s most exclusive seat to the show, cruising out from Baltimore Finger Piers.

The cruise boards before 8:00 p.m. and returns by 10:30 p.m., just in time for the explosive finale right above the harbor. You’ll glide through the Inner Harbor with Baltimore’s skyline as your backdrop, enjoying complimentary desserts and a full-service bar.

There’s no dress code, but let’s be honest—this is the night to break out that nautical-themed outfit you’ve been saving. Expect top-tier views, an elegant crowd, and vibes as smooth as the Prosecco on board.

Located at the scenic Middle Branch Waterfront, the Cherry Hill Arts & Music Waterfront Festival is the go-to for families and culture lovers looking to celebrate with meaning. Running from 1:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., this free festival blends local pride, music, and art with epic views of Baltimore’s skyline.

Expect a packed lineup of national and local artists, hands-on creative workshops, and plenty of food vendors to keep everyone fueled. It’s not just a party—it’s a celebration of heritage, community, and resilience.

You’ll want to carve out time for this one, especially when the fireworks at night wrap up the day with a powerful bang over the water. It’s perfect for anyone who loves their patriotism served with a side of live jazz and community love.

If you’re looking for a chill-but-hype atmosphere away from the waterfront crowds, the 3rd Annual Rotunda Rocks has your name all over it. This series of Friday night neighborhood street festivals on the plaza at The Rotunda kicks off at 6:00 p.m. and goes until 9:00 p.m., with July 4th featuring a rock set by the Kurt Deemer Band.

It’s low-key enough to bring the kids (or your dog), but still has that grown-up fun factor with craft drinks and street eats. The live music lineup always brings good vibes and even better dancing.

Local vendors, games, and an all-ages crowd make this a cozy community favorite. Plus, there’s free parking and easy access to Hampden’s main drag for post-festival eats.

The Pet Parade & Animal Talent Show at the American Visionary Art Museum is peak Baltimore weirdness in the best possible way. Starting bright and early at 8:30 a.m. with registration and kicking off at 9:00 a.m., this event invites all feathered, furry, or fantastically dressed pets to strut their stuff.

Expect costumes, canine choreography, and more than a few surprises. The parade winds through AVAM’s whimsical campus and leads right into a pet talent show that’ll have you laughing, clapping, and maybe tearing up a little.

It’s quirky, it’s heartfelt, and it’s the perfect kickoff to a citywide celebration. Honestly, your Fourth isn’t complete until you’ve seen a patriotic parrot do a spin move.

Ready to switch gears from wholesome to wild? The Baltimore 4th of July Day Bar Crawl Party 2025 turns Cross Street into party central. The event starts at Crossbar Der Biergarten at 8:00 p.m., and from there, it’s a whirlwind of DJs, themed cocktails, and red-white-and-boozy chaos.

You’ll hit Pub Dog Pizza & Drafthouse, GameOn Bar+Arcade, and end the night at The Perch, where the final bash goes until 2:00 a.m. This event has been voted Baltimore’s best 4th of July bar crawl for three years running.

It brings high-energy, killer drink specials, and crowd vibes you can feel in your bones. Whether you come for the music or the mayhem, you’ll leave with a camera roll full of questionable-but-hilarious memories.