Celebrate the Fourth in Style: Top Fireworks Shows in Minnesota & Wisconsin
- Kari Lynn
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
There’s nothing quite like the magic of fireworks lighting up a summer night sky—especially when you’re surrounded by lakes, small-town charm, or the excitement of a big city festival. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family picnic, or just want the best spot to catch a jaw-dropping display, Minnesota and Wisconsin offer some of the most memorable Independence Day celebrations in the Midwest.
From waterfront explosions in Duluth to classic small-town festivities in Pequot Lakes and lakeside shows in Wisconsin Dells, I’ve rounded up the top fireworks events that are worth the drive, the lawn chair, and the late bedtime. Keep reading for all the details, insider tips, and festive extras to make your Fourth of July sparkle! 🇺🇸✨
🎇 Minnesota Fireworks Celebrations
Duluth – “Fourth Fest”
When & Where: Bayfront Festival Park, July 4 at ~10:10 p.m.
Why it’s big: Often called the largest fireworks show in Minnesota and across the Upper Midwest—over $70k spent, thousands of shells up to 12” high .
Extras: Free live music and food/vendors from 4 p.m. onward.
Mankato – Riverfront Park
When: July 4 at 10 p.m. (gates open ~6 p.m.)
Where: Riverfront Park + views from Veterans Memorial Bridge .
Entertainment: Fireworks synchronized to local radio with music by KXLP, KATO & KDOG.
Excelsior – Fireworks over Lake Minnetonka
When: July 4, dusk
Where: Commons Park shores, Lake Minnetonka .
Atmosphere: Small-town charm—stroll downtown, browse local shops, grab dinner, then settle by the lake.
Eagan – Funfest Fireworks
When: July 4, 10 p.m.
Where: Eagan Community Center Festival Grounds .
Tip: Arrive early to enjoy carnival games and food vendors before the big finale.
Crosslake – Celebrate America Show
When: July 5 at dusk
Where: Cross Lake shoreline or aboard a boat .
Tradition: 55 years strong—a soundtrack broadcast via local radio (Skeeter 101.5 FM).
East Gull Lake – Resort-Style Spectacle
When: July 4 at 10 p.m.
Where: Madden’s Resorts, Gull Lake (airport or boat views) .
Vibes: A resort vacation feel with water views and lakeside ambience.
Pequot Lakes – Stars & Stripes Days
When: July 3–4
Events: Parades, bean-bag tosses, family activities, plus fireworks on both nights .
Appeal: A charming, multi-day small-town celebration.
🎆 Wisconsin Fireworks Highlights
Hudson – Booster Days Celebration
When: Parade on July 5; fireworks on Sunday, July 6, at dusk
Where: Lakefront Park along the St. Croix River .
What else: Spirits are high with carnival rides, music, beer garden, and river views.
Wisconsin Dells – Downtown Fireworks
When: July 4, 9:30 p.m.
Where: Elm Street Plaza .
Family Focus: Free day-long fun with crafts, games, and more before the fireworks.
Oak Creek – Citywide Celebration
When: July 4, culminating in fireworks at dusk
Where: Lake Vista Park, following a parade .
Bonus: Traditional parade plus community vendors and live entertainment.
Festival Foods Presents (various)
A statewide series on July 4, including:
Chippewa Falls: Riverfront Park, 10 p.m.
Green Bay: Downtown show at 9:45 p.m.
Fond du Lac: Lakeside Park, 9:30 p.m.
Eau Claire: High Bridge area, 10 p.m. .
Perks: Each location offers food trucks, music, and family activities—perfect for road-tripping.
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