4th of July Festivities 2023
With Southgate Mall cancelling its fabulous fireworks display these past few years, it has left many of us wondering—where can I watch a fireworks display?
The City of Missoula has an ordinance that prohibits fireworks within the city limits with the exception of professional pyrotechnicians who obtain a permit through the City of Missoula’s Fire Department. What that means for you at home—no lighting fireworks. And while that may be disappointing, it’s important to note that there is high number of firework related injuries and fires that occur each year, particularly around Independence Day. Plus, our local firefighters and first responders are already stretched thin with the current emergency response volume.
If you’re outside of the city limits, fireworks are legal but with some restrictions. The Missoula County Fire Protection Agency has an informational page dedicated to fireworks restrictions and use along with the current fire danger status.
So where can I watch a fireworks display?
MISSOULA & SURROUNDING AREA:
The Missoula PaddleHeads, will be performing several fireworks displays. Here are the dates:
June 30 at 7:10 pm vs. Glacier Range Riders - tickets, more info here
July 1 at 7:10 pm vs. Glacier Range Riders - tickets, more info here
July 21 at 7:10 pm vs. Ogden Raptors - tickets, more info here
BITTERROOT VALLEY:
July 4th at 9:45 - Stevensville Community Fireworks Display
Lewis & Clark Park - W 2nd Street, Stevensville, MT
July 4th at 10:30pm - Ravalli County Fairgrounds
100 Old Corvallis Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840
Fireworks are lit off by the horse stall area. Public may be seated on the carnival lawns or North lot area.
SEELEY LAKE AREA:
July 4th around 10:15pm- Lindy’s Steakhouse lawn area
3129 MT-83, Seeley Lake, MT 59868
Watch the fireworks over the lake after enjoying live music and more!
FLATHEAD LAKE AREA:
July 3rd around 10:00pm - Polson Chamber of Commerce Fireworks
Riverside Park, Polson, MT
The Polson community is proud to have earned its status as one of Montana’s most celebrated hotspots to observe our nation’s Independence Day. Polson offers professional-grade fireworks show annually, which is paid for through a significant donation drive effort coordinated by the local Polson Chamber of Commerce.
July 4th around 10:00pm
Bigfork, MT
Experience the beauty of Bigfork's skyline during a mesmerizing 4th Of July Fireworks display. Watch the night sky light up with vibrant colors over popular locations around Bigfork. The fireworks are launched from various locations and synchronized to music, creating a stunning visual and auditory experience. Whether you're a local or visiting, don't miss the chance to witness Bigfork's the spectacular fireworks display. Discover some of the Best Fourth Of July Fireworks display 2023 happening in Bigfork.
Photo Credit: Seeleylakelife.com
Other 4th of July Festivities:
MISSOULA AREA:
July 2nd at 2:00pm - 4th of July Celebration at the Jack Saloon
700 Graves Creek Rd, Lolo, MT
The Jack Saloon, the legendary Lumberjack, July 4 weekend celebration! Neal Elder will perform his interactive acoustic show on the patio. We'll have $3 burgers, $2 hotdogs, and $5 Italian sausage. In the yard we'll have a bouncy boxing ring, bungee run, and robo-surf board for kids and adults. Play horseshoes, cornhole, throw axes, or just relax in the beauty of the mountains. Full bar and great food at "The best bar in America."
July 4th 5:00pm Freedom Fest in Arlee
72532 N Couture Loop, Arlee, MT 59821
Kids 5 and under are Free - Don’t miss out on the best 4th of July - Celebration in Montana!!
July 4th at 10:00am Fourth At The Fort
Join the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula for the 47th Annual 4th at the Fort Celebration! This old-fashioned, family-friendly event has something for everyone.
SEELEY LAKE AREA:
Start the day with a pancake breakfast and car show at the Seeley Lake Fire Station. Later in the morning enjoy BBQ outside at Mission Bible Fellowship. Be sure to have your spot along Highway 83 by 1:45 for our parade. Floats and other participants will roll out starting at 2pm and continue until 3:30. Once again we will have a rubber ducky race starting about 4pm, and at 7pm the 406 Band from Missoula will start playing by the lake. After their last set, about 10:15, you can see the largest fireworks display we have ever had. This is a great way to celebrate our country's 247th birthday!