Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Between 2,000 and 10,000 people will gather along the sandy shores with blankets and chairs to watch the fireworks.

Celebrate all day: Sample local fare and watch the free Fourth of July Boat Parade in Murrells Inlet.

Showtime: At dusk, various piers will launch fireworks that can be seen anywhere on the beach.

Best view: Locals say the show is best with barbecue. Grab a pulled-pork sandwich from the Little Pigs BBQ vendor, and find a spot on a blanket on the sand.

After the show: Wander around the nearby fishing village of Murrells Inlet; visitmyrtlebeach.com