Birmingham knows how to do the Fourth of July. Between the city’s iconic hilltop spectacular and neighborhood celebrations scattered across the metro, there is no shortage of ways to mark America’s 250th birthday — yes, this year is a big one — in style. Here’s everything you need to know about where to be on July 4th.
Thunder on the Mountain — Vulcan Park
This is the one. Thunder on the Mountain is Birmingham’s signature Fourth of July event, and it has earned that status. At approximately 9 p.m. on July 4th, Pyro Shows of Alabama launches more than 2,500 fireworks shells and effects in a 20-minute show synchronized to a patriotic soundtrack broadcast across iHeartMedia Birmingham stations — 102.5 The Bull, 103.1 The Beat, 103.7 The Q, Magic 96.5, and others. The show airs live on WBRC 6 News.
The fireworks launch from Red Mountain, which means they’re visible from an enormous swath of Birmingham and Homewood — not just from the park itself. Vulcan Park will close to the public at 3 p.m. for setup, but the observation deck earlier in the day offers one of the best elevated views of the city. Parking on Red Mountain fills up from 7:30 p.m. onward — plan accordingly, or use rideshare drop-off. Admission to the park is free on the evening of the show.
Best viewing spots for Thunder on the Mountain beyond Vulcan:…