Gatlinburg kicks off Independence Day before anywhere else in the country — literally. The parade steps off at 12:01am July 4th, making it the first Fourth of July parade in the nation. Floats, marching bands, giant balloons, and military tributes roll through downtown Gatlinburg from Baskins Creek Bypass to Traffic Light #10. Show up a […]

Celebrate Independence Day the right way — on the water at Sugar Hollow Marina! Live music all day and fireworks at dark. Pack the cooler, fire up the grill, and enjoy Norris Lake at its most patriotic. Red, White & Blue Waters weekend (July 2–5).

Lone Mountain Marina goes all out for the 4th with their signature fireworks show plus live music on Norris Lake. Spend the day swimming and tubing, then stay for the most patriotic fireworks display on the lake. Peak lake life in East Tennessee.

Shanghai Resort on Norris Lake goes red, white, and blue for their annual Patriot Party! Patriotic cocktails, themed decorations, and a full day of lake fun. One of the most festive 4th of July parties on Norris Lake. Come by boat or by land.

Cedar Grove Marina lights up Norris Lake with a 4th of July fireworks show. One of the most scenic and laid-back marinas on the lake — perfect for a low-key Independence Day with cold drinks and fireworks reflecting off the water. Arrive early for the best spot.

The General Jackson Showboat’s Nashville LIVE midday cruise is the perfect daytime escape on the Cumberland River — featuring live entertainment, classic Southern flavors, and scenic views of the Nashville skyline. Cruise the river in style while enjoying great food, cold drinks, and live country and Nashville sounds that set the vibe. Runs regularly through […]

One of Gatlinburg’s quirkiest July 4th traditions — the River Raft Regatta sends creative homemade floatables drifting down the Little Pigeon River in a race to the finish line near Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. Come for the chaos, stay for the laugh. Cold drink in hand is strongly encouraged.

Nashville goes all out for America’s 250th with the biggest July 4th celebration in the city’s history. Five stages, 30+ artists, and headliners including Nick Jonas, Lauren Daigle, Brothers Osborne, Boyz II Men, NE-YO, Clint Black, and The All-American Rejects spread across First & Broadway, Ascend Amphitheater, Riverfront Park, and Public Square Park. The night […]

Lenoir City’s beloved free July 4th festival returns for its 26th year on the shores of Fort Loudoun Lake. Food vendors fire up at 1pm, live music kicks off at 5pm with The Deep Fakes, followed by Mike McGill & The Refills at 6:30pm and Full Service at 8:15pm. The night ends with a spectacular […]

Celebrate Independence Day on the water with the Freedom Floatilla Tie-Up at Monkey Cove, presented by Whitman Hollow Marina and Froggie’s Patio Bar. Summer vibes, fireworks energy, and non-stop fun — BYOB, bring your floats and anchors, tie up, turn up and celebrate. Featuring DJ2DEF spinning all afternoon.

Spend Saturday afternoon at Arrington Vineyards with live jazz and bluegrass on the lawn. Pour yourself a glass of estate wine and enjoy Tennessee hill country vibes. 3–7 PM every Saturday.