Fourth of July Celebrations In and Around Iowa City

The Fourth of July is just around the corner! Now is the time to break out your red, white, and blue gear and celebrate the birth and history of our nation. The Fourth is a highlight of summer, and many local communities have fun, family-friendly events planned not just for the Fourth but also the days before and after.

The Fourth of July is an important celebration for our family. Not only is it a time for my husband and I to bask in our history and civic nerd-dom, but it also falls near our middle son’s birthday. He’s a lucky kid, since we rarely have to coordinate additional plans due to the exciting festivities happening in our community.

Here’s a list of local events and firework displays planned in the area:

fourth of july iowa city

Iowa City Jazz Festival

June 30th-July 2nd

Kick off your Fourth of July celebrations with a weekend of live jazz performances, delicious food, and a full-blown fireworks finale over the University of Iowa’s Pentacrest lawn. Music will be featured on four stages, showcasing a variety of well-known jazz musicians and new talent alongside national and international artists. Be sure to bring a blanket or chair to enjoy this weekend of wonderful music. Or, if you’re lucky enough to get a night out with your spouse, you can enjoy a beverage in a beer garden! You can view the schedule of events here. 

Coralville FourthFest

July 1- 4th

Coralville’s annual 4th of July celebration is an area tradition. The multi-day festival attracts thousands of residents and visitors. As such, if you plan to attend any of the events you will need to leave in plenty of time to park and find a spot for your family. Festivities include a 5K run/walk, entertainment, food, a carnival, a free concert on July 3, the area’s largest Fourth of July parade, activities in the park, and fireworks on July 4. Most of the events are free and are hosted in S.T. Morrison Park (1513 7th St in Coralville). You can learn more about FourthFest here.

North Liberty Blues and BBQ

July 7th-8th

Wrap up your Fourth of July celebrations with North Liberty Blues & BBQ. This event brings the North Liberty community together for a free, family-friendly event. You’ll enjoy live Iowa blues music and remarkable food. You can view the schedule of events here. 

Private Fireworks Shows

One final note: recent legislation has changed the rules regarding the purchase of fireworks in Iowa. Although you can now purchase fireworks in the state, most municipalities in Johnson County have strict ordinances in place that limits and/or prohibits the sale and use of fireworks in town. Be sure to read this article for more information on where personal fireworks can be purchased and/or used locally. 

What are your family’s Fourth of July celebrations and traditions?

 

Meghann
Meghann is the mom of 5 kids. She is a Lecturer at the University of Iowa School of Journalism and Mass Communication and an Owner/Partner at Brand Driven Digital. Meghann was elected to the Coralville City Council in 2017 and is currently serving her first term. She serves on the Board of Directors of the Coralville Community Food Pantry (Vice-Chair) and on the DVIP Board of Directors. She is also a member of Johnson County's Juvenile Justice and Youth Development Policy Board. Meghann is passionate about her family, her community, and is a proud pop culture nerd.

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