Great Lakes Bay communities prepare for Fourth of July celebrations

Fireworks, parades, live music, and community festivals are planned across the Great Lakes Bay region as residents prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July.

Whether looking for a large festival or a small-town celebration, there are several events taking place throughout the holiday weekend.

Bay County

Bay City’s Fourth of July Fireworks Festival runs July 1-4 at Veterans Memorial Park and Wenonah Park. The event features carnival rides, food vendors, live entertainment and nightly fireworks displays leading up to the grand finale on July 4. The festival is expected to draw thousands of visitors throughout the week.

Midland County

In Midland, festivities begin at 3 p.m. on July 4 with the city’s Fourth of July Celebration downtown. The afternoon includes music, a public reading of the Declaration of Independence, and an opportunity for attendees to sign a 50-foot replica of the document as part of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration.

Downtown Midland’s Fourth of July Block Party also returns with food vendors, live entertainment, and activities before the evening fireworks display. Fireworks are expected to begin at dusk and can be viewed from several locations, including Dow Diamond, Founders Park and Whiting Overlook Park.

In Sanford, the annual community fireworks show returns July 4 at the Community of Christ Campground. The free display has become a longtime holiday tradition for residents in the area.

Saginaw County

Saginaw’s annual fireworks display is scheduled for the evening of July 4 over the Saginaw River near Ojibway Island. The free event is expected to begin at dusk and remains a popular tradition for families throughout the county.

Elsewhere in the region, Frankenmuth will celebrate with its Volksläufe Eve festivities on July 4 at Heritage Park. The event includes live music, food vendors, and fireworks before the city’s annual Independence Day races.

Anyone planning to attend a fireworks show should arrive early, as many events draw large crowds. Organizers also encourage visitors to check event pages for parking information and any weather-related updates before heading out.