Seattle, Washington

Get ready to party! Seattle has a reason to celebrate this year: The fireworks are put on by a nonprofit group, One Reel, which almost lacked enough in donations for this year. Expect a lot of happy people along the waterfront and in area restaurants and parks.

Celebrate all day: At Gas Works Park, Family 4th at Lake Union will have food vendors, live entertainment, a beer garden, and games.

Showtime: About 10 p.m. the 22-minute show will be synchronized to a mix of traditional anthems and popular songs.

Best view: Boat owners have a perfect spot on Lake Union. Or, bring a blanket to Gas Works Park—every spot here is great.

After the show: Hang out around the park; live music lasts an hour following the fireworks; onereel.org.