Baltimore's Fourth Of July Celebration Preview
Ports America Chesapeake Fourth of July Celebration
Inner Harbor Amphitheater
NW Corner of the Inner Harbor
Light Street & Pratt Street Pavilion of HarborPlace
(877) BALTIMORE
(800) 427-2671
www.promotionandarts.org/
Baltimore is best-known for its Ports America Chesapeake 4th of July Celebration, which hosts the popular live performance by Electric Brigade, a U.S. Naval Academy Band and a not-to-be-missed firework display over the bay. No matter where you go along the Inner Harbor, the area will be bustling with historical and cultural events throughout the day. Just be sure to pick the perfect spot to enjoy the spectacular fireworks show that starts at 9:30 p.m. Get a front row seat for the holiday's free live entertainment, including a popular performance by Electric Brigrade. Additional regional and local bands will play throughout the day. Also, the much-adored Harborplace street performers are never far away, always juggling, joking and interacting with the audience. Located at the water's edge in between Light and Pratt Streets, this spot is the central point for the citywide Independence Day celebration. (Note: Fireworks may be viewed from many locations downtown including Fells Point, Federal Hill and Rash Field).
Where to Watch
11th Annual Independence Day Deck Party
USS Constellation
301 E. Pratt St.
Baltimore, Md. 21202
(410) 539-1797
www.historicships.org/
Price: $65 per adult/$25 per child younger than 17
Hours: July 4 – 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
All aboard the USS Constellation to celebrate this year's independence holiday on the decks of a genuine American Treasure Historic Ship. Guests feast on a traditional American backyard barbecue while enjoying the delectable flavors of local beers and wines, plus there's the option of assorted sodas to help everyone stay awake until the fireworks show. Experience a night to remember filled with lively music, cannon firings and historic tours. The best part, however, is looking over the Inner Harbor high above the crowds for an excellent view of the fireworks.
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The Glorious Fourth…an Old-Fashioned Fourth of July!
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
2400 E. Fort Ave.
Baltimore, Md. 21230
(410) 962-4290
www.nps.gov/
Price: free/$7 per adult entrance into historic area of park/free children 15 and younger
Hours: 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
See how the 4th of July was celebrated back in the 1800s, and take part in a rare recognition of the fort's important role in The War of 1812, the country's second war for independence. Visitors will take a jump back in time and enjoy a special living history reenactment with the garrison of Fort McHenry. Then young and old gather with their fellow Baltimore citizens to participate in patriotic activities such as cannon firing, drum and fife music, a musket salute, poetry and games. One of the most popular highlights of this event is a dramatic public reading of the Declaration of Independence at 3 p.m.
Baltimore Independence Day Fireworks Dinner Cruise
Spirit of Baltimore
561 Light St.
Baltimore, Md. 21202
(866) 312-2469
spiritcruisesbaltimore.com/
Price: $109.90 per person
Hours: 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.
There's nothing better than front row seats for the fireworks on board The Spirit of Baltimore, combined with an entire evening of viewing the harbor illuminated under the night sky. Celebrate America's birthday while enjoying a premium open bar, grande dinner buffet and festive dancing to the DJ's hottest hits. This cruise promises an entertaining night from start to finish and is the perfect option for those seeking an experience that's a lot more unique than a land-based restaurant. For groups, consider upgrading to a gold or platinum package, which guarantees seating together for toasting to freedom and fun.
July 4th Pier Party at the National Aquarium
501 E. Pratt St.
Baltimore, Md. 21202
(410) 727-3474
www.aqua.org/
Price: $25 for adult members/$50 for adult non-members/$15 for children ages 3 to 11 members/$20 for children non-members/free for children younger than 3
Hours: 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Enjoy an evening by the water in more ways than one. This pier party provides live entertainment, upbeat music, fun children's activities and one of the city's best views of the fireworks. Food is available for purchase, or bring your own picnic basket dinner. The ticket price also includes aquarium admission during the event for additional celebrating with the aquatic life. Because this is such a popular event, be sure to book your reservations well in advance.
Related: Firehouse Expo at Baltimore Convention Center
Keri Ann Beazell is a Baltimore writer following the latest developments in arts and culture, natural wonders, lifestyle and pets. She enjoys promoting thought-provoking discussions, education, new ideas and smiles among readers. Follow her on Twitter at @KtBlue16 and online at Examiner.com
