Fourth of July in the Lehigh Valley: Fireworks, parades and other Independence Day 2021 events
With hundreds of thousands of COVID-19 vaccinations administered across the region, the majority of Independence Day celebrations are a go for 2021.
By Pamela Sroka-Holzmann | For lehighvalleylive.com
Updated Jul 02, 8:43 AM; Posted Jul 02, 7:00 AM
Independence Day, also known as the Fourth of July, is a U.S. federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
It has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941 but the tradition of Independence Day celebrations dates back to the 18th century and the American Revolution, according to a history.com report. The Continental Congress on July 2, 1776 voted in favor of independence and two days later delegates from the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence -- a historic document drafted by U.S. President Thomas Jefferson.
In pre-Revolutionary years, colonists held annual celebrations of the king’s birthday, which traditionally included the ringing of bells, bonfires, processions and speech-making. By contrast, during the summer of 1776 some colonists celebrated the birth of independence by holding mock funerals for King George III, as a way of symbolizing the end of the monarchy’s hold on America and the triumph of liberty, according to history.com.
Today, Americans mark Independence Day with everything from fireworks, parades, carnivals and baseball games to family reunions, barbecues and get-togethers. Also common are political speeches and ceremonies.
The majority of municipalities are continuing this year with these and other traditions after many were postponed or canceled in 2020 amid the pandemic. Some events will continue to require attendees to social distance, sanitize and wear facial masks, especially for those not fully vaccinated.
As of Wednesday, there were 341,870 people fully vaccinated and 88,430 with their first shot in Northampton and Lehigh counties combined alone. That is 64% of the population with at least one shot and 51% of the population fully vaccinated, according to state health officials.
The following events are planned to ring in the 4th of July in the Allentown, Bethlehem and Easton areas and elsewhere in the Lehigh Valley. We also tell you which events held traditionally are canceled or postponed this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Northampton County
The following Independence Day events are scheduled throughout Northampton County:
Bethlehem
Independence Day celebration at SteelStacks, 6 p.m. Sunday, July 4: ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks, 101 Founders Way. Live music and patriotic programming. From 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., a performance by Hydraulic Lime and from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m., a performance by Big Bone Daddy at the Community Stage on the Air Products Town Square. At 7:30 p.m. at the Levitt Pavilion Lawn, there will be live music by The Allentown Band.
Fourth of July Fireworks at SteelStacks, 9 p.m. Sunday, July 4. Concessions will include Mack Truck Stop; Palette & Pour; Heaven on a Bun; and MMG Concessions.
All American First Friday, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, July 2: SouthSide Bethlehem. Program includes live music in four locations, including lawn games and a hot dog eating competition. The Wonton Soups will perform from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub, 4 E. Fourth St.; Neil Grover will perform from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The Banana Factory, 25 W. 3rd St.; Swamp Guard will perform from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Dinky’s Ice Cream Parlor, 312 E. Third St., Suite 102; and The Swingtime Dolls will perform from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Roasted, 22 W. 4th St.
A Bean Bag Toss, Jenga and Connect Four games will run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub, 4 E. 4th St.; Glassblowing with Dennis Gardner and Glass fusing with Becky Shoemaker will run from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The Banana Factory, 25 W. 3rd St.; and a hot dog eating contest will follow at 7 p.m. by Roasted, 22 W. 4th St.
The annual Compendium exhibitions at the Banana Factory Arts Center, 25 W. 3rd St., also will be offered, highlighting the thriving artistic community of the region and showcasing the diverse array of multidisciplinary artists who reside there. The Bethlehem Parking Authority is offering 50% off metered parking with the promo code “BPAFF” on the ParkMobile app.
City’s Fourth of July Fireworks, 9:15 p.m. Sunday, July 4 (rain date for fireworks 9:15 p.m. Monday, July 5): Fired from Sand Island, the show will be visible from various areas of the city, particularly around the Payrow Plaza area from the East Church Street side. Sand Island East will be closed to the public at noon and the tennis courts will be closed the entire day.
Christmas in July, all-day now until Sunday, July 25: downtown Bethlehem. Event features downtown window decorating contest and “Selfie with an Elfie,” as well as a “Snowball Scramble” and “Fest of the Seven Fishes.” From Thursday, July 22 to Saturday, July 24, participating restaurants will offer special seafood dishes during the “Fest of The Seven Fishes;” players can download a “Snowball Scramble” card from the Downtown Bethlehem Association’s website, which will allow them to compete in the game by unscrambling letters in storefront windows; downtown merchants will compete in window decoration contests; and shoppers will be able to scope out “elves” hidden in shops and restaurants, take a “selfie” and upload it to social media using #SelfieWithAnElfie for that contest. Additionally, on Saturday, July 24 and Sunday, July 25, Historic Downtown Bethlehem and the Southside Arts District will host a gift card flash sale for special deals at local businesses.
Easton
Military discount program, during operating hours throughout July, Crayola Experience, 30 Centre Square. Active, veteran and retired military personnel, as well as federal government employees, with valid identification receive free admission through the “True Blue Hero” discount program. Additionally, accompanying immediate family (spouse, children and grandparents) will receive 25% off general admission. Children under 3 are free.
Independence Day program, starting 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, July 4: National Canal Museum, 2750 Hugh Moore Park Road. Canal boat rides on the Josiah White II offered in celebration of America’s birthday at noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. Free admission for all active and retired military personnel with identification. Admission is $9-$12, children under 3 free and discounts for families.
Red, White & Brew Festival, 7 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. Saturday, July 3: Riverside Barr and Grill, 5801 S.Delaware Drove. Music by Psych and Band of brothers, drink specials and fireworks display. Admission is free before 6 p.m. and $8 after 6 p.m.
Heritage Day, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, July 11: Centre Square and a block out on North and South Third Streets and in the 200 block and 400 block of Northampton Street. Featuring the reading of the Declaration of Independence at Heritage Stage (Centre Square); re-enactments from the American Revolutionary War to modern-day military; United States president re-enactors; glass blowing, blacksmithing and other artisan activities; artisan food; and children’s activities. Live music at the Star Spangled stage along South Third Street and a fireworks display is planned to be launched from the confluence of the Lehigh and Delaware rivers at 9:30 p.m.
Lehigh Township
Independence Day Celebration: 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, July 2: Woodstone Country Club, 3777 Dogwood Road. Food vendors, helicopter rides, hot air balloon rides, zip-lining, ax throwing, mechanical bull riding, obstacle courses, children’s activities, and 70-foot slip and slide. A 40-minute fireworks show will cap off the festivities. Cost is $20 for adults and $10 for children in advance; $25 at the gate; $15 for children and free for those age 3 and under.
Nazareth
Kazoo Parade, 10 a.m. Saturday, July 3: Nazareth Area High School, 501 E. Center St. Hosted by the Nazareth Area Chamber of Commerce, a partner of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce. Kazoos will be handed out at 9:30 a.m. -- prior to the parade at the high school. The parade will walk from the high school to Veterans Memorial Square, where a patriotic program will be held at 11 a.m. Mon & Mel’s Sweet Scoops Ice Cream Truck will serve cool treats for purchase at Veterans Memorial Square. Rebecca Pieper, owner of The Musik Makers, is scheduled to perform. No single grand marshal has been named this year, instead the event will honor all local veterans. All veterans in attendance for the parade will have a chance to lead the procession; veterans unable to join the parade also will have an opportunity to be honored during the patriotic program outside Borough Council Chambers.
Palmer Township
The annual Firecracker 4-Mile Run/Walk, hosted by the Greater Valley YMCA, is canceled again this year. The race is traditionally the first of a four-part series, including the Slate Belt Sprint typically held in August; Debbie’s Dash in October, and Pumpkin Pie 5k on Thanksgiving day in November.
Portland Borough and Upper Mount Bethel Township
Independence Day parade, noon Sunday, July 4 (rain or shine): Parade begins at Dunkin,’ 398 Route 611 in Portland, then heads north on Route 611 and veers left onto Delaware Avenue. The procession then turns left on Turkey Ridge Road; left on Saddle Creek Drive; left on Million Dollar Highway; right on Ramblewood Drive; left on Totts Gap Road; continues south on Johnsonville Road; crosses over Route 512 onto Orchard Road; left on Evergreen Road; right on Independence Road into Evergreen Village; left on Flintlock Road and passing the clubhouse; left on Revolutionary Road; left on Powderhorn Place; back onto Independence Road exiting Evergreen Village; and turning right on Evergreen Road to Route 611. Parade will end on Route 611. The parade will travel at 10-mph along the 10-mile route. Homeowners along the route are invite to decorate their homes, property, bikes and cars, as well as wear patriotic attire.
The following Independence Day events are scheduled throughout Lehigh County:
Allentown
Great American Blast, 6 p.m. Saturday, July 3: Coca Cola Park, 1050 Ironpigs Way, Allentown. Massive fireworks show expected to be at least three times larger than an IronPigs post-game fireworks event; food options, family activities and live music. Children can enjoy inflatable games, sack races, and mascot appearances. Tickets cost $6 and children ages 2 and under are free. Tickets can be purchased here and parking is $5 per vehicle.
4th of July Celebration, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday, July 4: J. Birney Crum Stadium, 2027 Linden St. Live music, family-friendly activities, food vendors and a large “musical” fireworks show (about 9:20 p.m.). Stadium gates open at 5 p.m. with patriotic giveaways. Musical performances are planned by Scott Marshall & The Highway Souls; the Lou Franco Project with James Supra; Cherry Bombs; and the Hector Rosado Y Su Orq Hache Band.
“Let Freedom Ring!” Independence Day Program, Noon Sunday, July 4: Liberty Bell Museum, 622 W. Hamilton St. Event coincides with a “Bells Across America” ceremony at 2 p.m. and includes a children’s kite craft project to take home. Benjamin Franklin impersonator Mitchell Kramer will begin a presentation at 1:15 p.m. with the bell ringing to follow by 2 p.m. The museum additionally will provide materials for a children’s craft following the bell-ringing, as well as offer time to take photos and speak with Mr. Kramer. Admission is $1-$2; children age 4 and under free.
Independence Sunday service, 10:45 a.m. Sunday, July 4: Zion’s “Liberty Bell” United Church of Christ , 620 Hamilton St. Includes worship and the annual reading of the Declaration of Independence as a key part of the service. About two dozen participants will reenact the protests of the colonists by reading sections of the declaration, punctuated by the ringing of “Allentown’s ‘Liberty Bell.” While in 1776, it’s likely just a couple people read the entire document to an assembled crowd in front of the church, the church plans to have this year’s reading given by a diverse group from the community.
Zion’s church is known as the “Liberty Bell Church” because on Sept. 24, 1777, the Liberty Bell (then known as Pennsylvania’s State House bell) was hidden under the floor boards of the church for safe-keeping from the British who had occupied Philadelphia. The church established the Liberty Bell (Shrine) Museum in the lower level of the building in 1962, with a full-scale replica of the Liberty Bell and changing exhibits. The museum will be open following the Independence Sunday program. A free-will offering is received.
Macungie
The July 4 Celebration and Duck Race is canceled this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Slatington
Slatington’s Heritage Day, 10 a.m. Saturday, July 3: Slatington Baptist Church, 509 Main St. Featuring live music from the Heritage Day Band, an invocation from The Rev. James LeVan of Slatington Baptist Church, and a program by presenter Kaz Kotlow, a community leader and U.S. veteran. Attendees are asked to bring a chain or blanket.
Upper Macungie Township
This year’s 2021 Independence Day Fireworks Spectacular has been canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
South Whitehall Township
Military discount, park operating hours Sunday, July 4: Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, 3830 Dorney Park Road. Active or retired military personnel can buy up to six discounted admission tickets online at a special military discount price of $38.
Fireworks, 9 p.m. Sunday, July 4: at the amusement park.
Warren County
The following Independence Day events are scheduled throughout Warren County:
Blairstown
Blairstown Fourth, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, July 4: Footbridge Park with parking at nearby Alpine Field on Route 94 (near Alpine Meats). No. 1. Live music and many activities, including a Frog Jump, Patriotic Pet contest, pie eating contest, pie baking, sack races, and Oreo-stacking. A duck race, sponsored by the Blairstown Rotary Club, benefitting the Blairstown Hose Co., also is planned for 4 p.m.
Fireworks Display, 9 p.m. Saturday, July 3 (rain date Monday, July 5): North Warren Regional High School, 10 Noe Road. Sponsored by the Blairstown Rotary Club.
Washington
Washington Borough Independence Day Celebration, 8:30 a.m. Sunday, July 4: starts with an old-fashioned orange crate derby with racers gathering at Boro Park to race down Broad Street. At 3 p.m., a parade led by Grand Marshal Marion Brendan will travel down Broad Street to Belvidere Avenue and finish past the middle school on Carlton Ave. A fireworks extravaganza will begin at dusk at Warren Hills Regional Middle School, 64-66 Carlton Ave., in the borough. This year’s event also marks the 100th anniversary of the New Jersey State Police. Troopers from both the Perryville and Washington barracks, as well as a Northstar helicopter, also will be participating in the festivities. Horses for Forces and the Willow Grove Clydesdales also plan to make an appearance. Another helicopter will be on display at the field for children to take photos beside, as well as antique cars.
The following Independence Day events are scheduled in neighboring Monroe County:
Tannersville
Splash & See Awe-Inspiring July 4th Fireworks, 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sunday, July 4: Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark, 301 Resort Drive, Tannersville. Live Music, food, and the new “Adventure Zone,” complete with a rock climbing wall for day guests, as well as 37 rides, slides and attractions until 8 p.m. Park opens to the public at 7 p.m. for non-day guests. Parking is at Camelbeach.
