Fireworks are lighting up the skies again this Independence Day—and this year, the fun kicks off early. With the Fourth of July falling on a Friday, Milwaukee and its suburbs are offering patriotic festivities starting as early as Wednesday, July 2.

Milwaukee County Events
On July 3, head to the lakefront for a drone light show over McKinley Beach and Park, with the 45-minute display visible along much of the shoreline. Then, on the Fourth, fireworks return to neighborhood parks across the city—starting around 9:15 p.m. at spots like Humboldt, Washington, and Wilson Parks. Daytime events include parades, games, and picnics throughout Milwaukee County Parks.

Suburban Celebrations
From family parades to craft beer tastings, the suburbs are bringing classic Americana back in a big way.

• Brown Deer: Food trucks and fireworks at Village Park. Show starts at 9:30 p.m.
• Cudahy: All-day fun with a bike parade and fireworks at 9:15 p.m.
• Franklin: A four-day bash with rides, contests, and fireworks at 9:30 p.m.
• Glendale: Free celebration at Kletzsch Park with cake and fireworks at 9:00 p.m.
• Greendale: Carnival rides and craft beer from July 2–5. Fireworks at dusk on July 4.
• Greenfield: Beauty pageant, live music, and fireworks at 9:45 p.m. at Konkel Park.
• Hales Corners: Pet costume contest, UW Marching Band, and 9:30 p.m. fireworks.
• Oak Creek: Citywide celebration at Vista Park, fireworks at dusk.
• Shorewood: Atwater Park festivities start at 9:00 p.m.
• Wauwatosa: A July 2 drone show at Hart Park replaces fireworks. Parade and festival still on July 4.
• West Allis: Parade on July 2. Fireworks and food trucks July 4 at Nathan Hale High School.
• Whitefish Bay: A hometown parade and fireworks at Klode Park at 9:30 p.m.

With liberal cities across the country scaling back fireworks or replacing them with politically correct alternatives, Milwaukee’s robust celebration is a reminder that patriotism is alive and well in the Midwest.