July 4th has long been one of America’s favorite holidays. And why shouldn’t it be, what with all the parades, fireworks and backyard barbecues! It was on July 4th, 1776 that the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress, the first step on the 13 colonies’ path to freedom as a sovereign nation. 

How are you going to celebrate the Fourth here in Phoenix? You’ll find a variety of ideas below. Thanks, as always, to About.com for the listings! (And stay tuned for our monthly listing of events in July -- to come later this week.)

Fourth of July Activities in the Phoenix-Area Cities

 

*4th of July in Surprise is free with a canned food donation. It is a ticketed event, though, that’s limited to 10,000 people.

*At Litchfield Park, fireworks are free but water activities are not.

Other Fourth of July Activities

Classic Car Show and Great American Picnic at the Wigwam Golf Resort & Spa
What: On Friday evening the resort will feature a Classic Car Show from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. with live entertainment starting at 7 p.m. on the Terrace overlooking the Wigwam’s golf course. The July 4th event takes place on the resort Front Lawn with hayrides, historical tours, fireside s’mores, a display of the latest military vehicles and equipment from the 944 Reserve Wing stationed at Luke Air Force Base, an F-16 flyover and a fireworks spectacular at 9 p.m.

When: Friday, July 3rd and Saturday, July 4th from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

How much: Both events are open to the public and are free. The Great American Picnic will also feature a family-style BBQ cookout with live entertainment from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. for $15/adult and $9/children under 10. The Wigwam is offering a special Great American Picnic hotel stay package from $109, with each additional night just $50, that includes two adult and two child tickets to the cookout and premier firework seating.

Light Up the Sky: Maryvale Baseball Park
What: Games, contests, information booths, community groups and a fireworks show.

A Star Spangled Shoot Out at Rawhide
What: Live music, face painting, a “Best Dressed” Cowboy & Cowgirl Costume Contest, performances by Rawhide’s own Rough Riders, seasonal food items at the Steakhouse & Saloon, and an Aerial Fireworks Display!

What: All-you-can-eat BBQ beef or chicken dinner, a patriotic show by the Rockin’ R Wranglers, and a fireworks display. Free watermelon, gold panning and wagon rides start at 5:30 p.m. Dinner is served at 6:30 p.m. in the air conditioned theatre and dining room. Fireworks follow the dinner and stage show.

How much: Tickets are $30 for adults, $20 for children 3-12, ages 2 and under are free. Call for reservations.