Red, white, and BOOM! Whether you’re soaking up sunshine at the beach or catching a fireworks finale over the water, there’s no better place to celebrate Independence Day than right here in the Lowcountry. From community festivals to waterfront shows, we’ve rounded up everything you need to plan a Charleston-style Fourth of July.

Think boat rides, beach days, backyard BBQs—and maybe even a flag cake if you’re feeling festive. ☀️
If you’re out on the sand during the day, keep your eyes on the sky! The 169th Fighter Wing of the South Carolina Air National Guard is scheduled to do a 4th of July flyover across multiple beaches. You can expect to hear those F-16 jets roar overhead between 1:00–2:00 PM, with prime viewing from Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, Folly Beach, and even parts of Kiawah. It’s a thrilling and patriotic moment—and a great excuse to pause your beach read and look up!

Here’s how to make the most of the holiday:

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🎆 Charleston 4th of July Events & Fireworks Shows

Patriot’s Point 4th of July Blast (Mount Pleasant)

• Location: USS Yorktown at Patriot’s Point
• Time: Festivities begin around 6 PM; fireworks at dark
• Highlights: Live music, food trucks, and unmatched views of fireworks over Charleston Harbor
• Note: Tickets required for flight deck access (sells out early!), but you can also enjoy views from the park below

Riverfront Park 4th of July Festival (North Charleston)

• Location: Riverfront Park
• Time: Gates open at 5 PM; fireworks at 9 PM
• Highlights: Free admission, family fun zone, food vendors, and live music

Isle of Palms Fireworks Show

• Location: Front Beach, near the pier
• Time: Fireworks start at 9 PM
• Tip: Arrive early for parking and bring beach chairs!

Folly Beach Independence Day Celebration

• Location: Folly Beach Pier area
• Time: Fireworks at sundown
• Tip: Prepare for traffic (coming and going), parking, and make sure to bring your own chair or blanket! Most restaurants out there don’t take reservations – but if you get there early enough you can enjoy dinner before the show!

Kiawah Island 4th of July Festival

• Location: Night Heron Park (Kiawah Resort guests & residents only)
• Time: All-day festivities with fireworks at dark
• Includes: Bike parades, music, inflatables, and more

Summerville’s Red, White & Blue on the Green

• Location: Hutchinson Square, Historic Downtown Summerville
• Time: July 3rd from 5:30–9:30 PM
• Bonus: Great for families with younger kids—includes fireworks, food vendors, and live music

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🌅 Best Free Spots to Watch Fireworks in Charleston

Waterfront Park (Downtown Charleston)

• Watch the harbor light up from the iconic pineapple fountain
• Gorgeous views and a festive atmosphere, but get there early for a good spot

Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park

• Located near the Ravenel Bridge and beneath the flight path of the Patriot’s Point fireworks
• Family-friendly with a large lawn, picnic tables, and easy parking (early!)

Shem Creek Boardwalk

• A little more low-key with great water views and easy access to bars and restaurants
• You may not see every firework show, but it’s a perfect vibe for a festive evening

The Pitt Street Bridge (Old Village, Mount Pleasant)

• A local favorite with panoramic marsh and harbor views
• Bring a blanket and enjoy a quieter, crowd-free evening

Alhambra Hall Lawn (Old Village, Mount Pleasant)

• Tucked away behind a historic event space—great views of fireworks over the harbor
• Less known to tourists, mostly locals

Sullivan’s Island Beaches

• Fireworks are not allowed on the island, but you can see distant displays from the sand
• Perfect for a quiet beach evening with patriotic views on the horizon

James Island County Park

• While it doesn’t always host its own show, it’s a scenic and shaded spot to catch distant displays, especially with a picnic setup

Wappoo Cut Boat Landing (James Island)

• Small and tucked away, this is a great hidden gem if you’re nearby
• Great for sunset views and catching some of the harbor fireworks from a distance

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Whether you’re grilling on the back patio or heading to the harbor with a blanket and a sparkler, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate Independence Day in the Holy City (just make sure to do it responsibly!)

✨ Let freedom ring—Charleston style!