Celebrating the Fourth of July in Central Ohio varies from community to community, but the sense of patriotic pride enjoying time with friends and family is universal. Whether you’re looking for a day filled with parades and live music or a casual evening with friends and family, the Columbus region has festivities for every style.

Here are just a few of our favorite July 4th events happening around town.

Red, White & BOOM! – Downtown Columbus (Thursday, July 3)

Downtown Columbus comes alive with Red, White & BOOM!, the largest Independence Day celebration in the Midwest. The event kicks off with a high-energy parade and street festival, complete with food vendors, kids’ activities, and live entertainment. As night falls, thousands gather to witness a dazzling fireworks show set against the city skyline.

Upper Arlington’s Day-Long Festivities

July 4^th in Upper Arlington is a long-standing and beloved tradition. The day starts with a classic neighborhood parade along Northwest Boulevard, beloved by locals and visitors alike. When the sun goes down, head to Northam Park for an evening of live music, food trucks, and a family-friendly atmosphere. The night concludes with a vibrant fireworks show that’s pure small-town charm with big city fun.

Worthington Rotary Family Picnic

For a slower pace, Worthington offers a community picnic on the lawn of the McConnell Arts Center. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and enjoy a laid-back day with neighbors. As evening approaches, catch the fireworks from Thomas Worthington High School stadium; it’s the perfect family friendly celebration in a picturesque setting.

Dublin’s Full-Day Celebration

Dublin’s Fourth of July is a sunrise-to-fireworks kind of day. You can start your holiday with the Sherm Sheldon Fishing Derby at Avery Pond before heading to Historic Dublin to enjoy a patriotic parade featuring bands, floats, and more. Then, head over to Coffman High School for live music, local eats, and plenty of family-friendly fun. This year’s featured artists are Kansas and 38 Special – two multi-platinum album bands known for their long history in the classic rock genre. As the sky darkens, get ready for a spectacular fireworks display that ends the day on a high note.

Clintonville’s Community Vibes

Want something a bit more low-key but still festive? Clintonville offers a neighborhood celebration full of charm. Enjoy live bands, food trucks, and lawn games in a cozy, local setting. It’s the kind of event where you’ll run into neighbors, meet new friends, and feel right at home.

Delaware’s Classic Americana

Charming and full of tradition, Delaware’s celebration starts with a parade that winds through historic downtown. The evening features a free concert by the Central Ohio Symphony on the Ohio Wesleyan campus. Bring a chair or blanket and settle in for an inspiring night of music and fireworks in one of the area’s most historic settings.

Westerville’s Independence Day Celebration

Start your day with the Westerville Rotary July 4th 5K at 8 a.m., followed by a patriotic parade at 10:30 a.m. The festivities continue with a concert series, food truck festival, and a spectacular fireworks display in the evening. It’s a full day of family-friendly fun in one of Central Ohio’s most welcoming communities.

Hilliard Freedom Fest

Celebrate Independence Day with Hilliard’s Freedom Fest, featuring a morning parade through Old Hilliard and an evening festival with live music, food trucks, and a Kid Zone. The night concludes with a dazzling fireworks show that lights up the sky.

Gahanna’s Two-Day Celebration

Gahanna’s celebration kicks off with a community festival on July 3, including live music and food vendors. followed by a fireworks show that evening.  On July 4, enjoy the traditional parade at 10:30 AM hosted by the Gahanna Lion’s Club.

Granville’s 4^th of July Festival

Experience small-town charm with Granville’s multi-day festival featuring a street fair, live music, parades, and family-friendly activities. Don’t miss the fireworks show on July 2nd, offering a taste of Americana in a unique Central Ohio setting.

Bexley Independence Day

Bexley’s celebration begins with the John Barr 5K at 8 a.m., followed by a parade at 9:30 a.m. The evening features a community celebration with live music and food on the lawn of Capital University, ending with a fireworks display at 10 p.m.

Grove City Independence Day Fireworks

Celebrate Independence Day in Grove City with a spectacular fireworks display. Join family and friends at 9:45 to watch the fireworks launch from Murfin Fields with simulcast music on WLVQ-96.3 FM. It’s sure to be a show – and an evening – to remember.

New Albany Parade, Fireworks, and More

The theme for this year’s July 4^th celebration in New Albany is “Too Fly for the 4th of July,” so it’s sure to be the biggest and best one yet! The parade will kick off at 11:00 AM, followed by a stunning fireworks display at 10 PM. For the best view of the fireworks, make your way to Rose Run Park and the NAPLS campus.

At Vutech | Ruff, we believe that community is at the heart of every great neighborhood. These Independence Day events showcase the vibrant spirit and togetherness that make Central Ohio a wonderful place to live. Whether you’re enjoying a local parade, savoring festival foods, or watching fireworks light up the night sky, we hope you find joy and connection this Fourth of July.

Happy Independence Day from all of us at Vutech | Ruff!