July 4th Happenings in the ATL

It's officially summer in the ATL and the July 4th festivities are coming!

July 3rd in Kennesaw

Before the 4th Kennesaw presents the Salute to America July 3^rd in downtown Kennesaw. There will be 2 stages with The Troubador Project and Atlanta Rhythm Section and fireworks at 9:30.

Peachtree Road Race Options

Whether you are running or spectating, the Peachtree Roadrace is Atlanta's signature event and you must take it in. If you are looking for a place to watch, head to the InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta. Guests are invited to InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta for an unforgettable Peachtree Road Race experience, filled with exceptional food, fantastic views and unparalleled hospitality. The hotel's restaurant, The Americano, has a patio right on the race route. The watch party kicks off at 7 am, offering a prime view of the race along with their delightful breakfast menu.

A little south on Peachtree, check out the Buckhead Village where you can celebrate the 55th Peachtree Road Race in the development's "cheer station" which will be free and open to the public. Beginning at 7am on Thurs., July 4, friends, family, and self-proclaimed cheerleaders are invited to the corner of Peachtree and Bolling Way (directly in between Brush Sushi and Shake Shack) where the Buckhead Village team - in partnership with the Atlanta Track Club - will supply a collection of noise makers, posters & more to help cheer on your favorite runners.

Following the race, Buckhead Village restaurants will keep the party going on race day with a slew of specials including Boba Craze - Boba tea specials for all race participants after the race (please bring your race bib). Carmel - Offering a celebratory glass of bubbles to all race participants who dine-in restaurant after the race (valid during lunch service only). Gypsy Kitchen - Offering a 15% discount for all runners. The restaurant opens at 4pm for regular dinner service. Saint Germain - Offering 20% off for runners & 40% off champagne & rosé. Valid on race day only. Shake Shack - Free Shackburger to runners who show their bib at checkout. In-store only; all day long. Southern Gentleman - Offering a 15% discount to runners from 11:30am-3pm.

Even further south on Peachtree, head to the Mellow Mushroom (which turns 50 this year!). Not only is this a great spot to see the race but they will be handing out beers to runners and spectators during the race. Happening Thurs., July 4 only.

Other 4th of July options:

Underground Atlanta hosts their annual 4th of July Block Party. It's free before 5 p.m. and up to $1,300 for large parties of 13 people, including premium bottles and elevated green area seating. This block party offers something for everyone: live music, food trucks, and games. At nightfall, get ready to watch a spectacular fireworks show that will light up the Atlanta skyline.

The Marietta Square will host the Marietta's 4th in the Park Celebration. This is free to attend and patrons can take part in day-long festivities, including a parade, live concerts, an arts and crafts show, food, games, and a fireworks finale. Also you can beat the heat (and the crowds) by watching Marietta's Freedom Parade pass directly underneath The Strand terrace at the Bird's Eye Parade View! On the morning of Thursday, July 4, parade-watchers can perch on The Strand's rooftop and enjoy a Bird's Eye Parade View of this year's Let Freedom Ring Parade by City of Marietta. Doors open at 9 AM and the parade starts at 10 AM. It is recommended that guests purchase tickets in advance as the event usually sells out. There is a limit of ten tickets per purchase.

Finally if you are really a fireworks nerd, check out The Roof's Fourth of July Celebration on the Ponce City Market Roof. It costs $15-$30 for both day and evening admission. Bring your whole family during the day for hot dogs and games at Skyline Park, or relax after 5 p.m. once the event turns 21-plus with a dinner at 9 Mile Station, followed by arguably the best panoramic view of Atlanta's various fireworks displays including downtown, midtown and Buckhead.

Woodstock

July 4th Spectacular event begins with a parade at 10am, a festival at 11am, and its fireworks show at 9pm.

Stone Mountain Park

July 4 Fantastic Fourth Celebration is a weeklong celebration that culminates with a drone and light show and fireworks at 9:30pm July 4.

Coolray Field will still be the place to see Gwinnett County's largest July 4 fireworks display this year. The Stripers are hosting "Fourth on the Field" on Thursday, July 4, an event that will include a movie, live music, food, kids activities, and more. Tickets are just $10 per adult and $5 for kids (12 and under) in advance. Day-of-event tickets on July 4 will be $15 per adult and $10 for kids. Parking is free until 7 p.m. that night. "Fourth on the Field" will include:

• Movie - kids-themed baseball movie will show on the Video Board from 7-9 p.m.
• Fireworks - Gwinnett County's largest fireworks July 4 fireworks show begins at 9:15 p.m.
• Beer Garden - fans age 21 and older can add on a wristband for $25 that will give them access to pours from participating breweries through 8:30 p.m.
• Food - Coolray Field's concession stands will be open allowing fans to purchase traditional ballpark fare.
• Free Events - axe throwing, a hot dog eating contest, kids inflatable games, face painting (for kids) all included with entry price.
• Tie-Dye T-Shirt Making - purchase and make your own tie-dye t-shirt at Bobby's Tackle Team Store for just $15.

Roswell Area

Roswell welcomes patrons to Roswell Area Park for live music, entertainment, and food trucks. Bring your chairs and blankets to spread out at one of several fireworks viewing areas throughout the park. Fireworks will start at sunset.

Dunwoody

The Dunwoody Homeowners Association is hosting what it calls Georgia's "longest Independence Day Parade" at 9am. The parade route can be viewed here.

Downtown Decatur

5:30 pm Line-up • Starts at 6 pm Watch (or join in) the Pied Piper Parade as it winds through downtown with floats, wagons, and bicycles. Head to the community bandstand to listen to live music on the square. Prizes will be awarded for best decorated bikes and floats. Then enjoy music from the MetroGnomes who will play at 7 pm.