Get ready to experience the ultimate Independence Day festivities and check out these local celebrations. From vibrant fireworks shows to dining deals and events, there’s plenty of options to choose from when making your Fourth of July plans this year.
So, raid your closet for everything stars/stripes and red, white and blue and show off your patriotism.
Here’s a peek at some of this year’s Fourth of July happenings in the Queen Creek area and across the Valley.
Events
Hometown 4th at Schnepf Farms
Schnepf Farms is bringing back their "Hometown 4th," on Thursday, July 4, featuring food trucks, craft vendors, live music, water inflatables, fireworks and more. To gain entry into the farm, guests must purchase a Car Pass ahead of time. The Car Pass grants entry to everyone in the car so they can celebrate the night on the farm.
The event is from 4 to 9 p.m. VIP tickets are available for purchase.
Where: 24810 S. Rittenhouse Road, Queen Creek.
Cost: $40 per car.
More information: schnepffarms.com.
Editor's Note: Hometown 4th at Schnepf Farms history
Back in the early '60s Ray Schnepf thought the town needed a fireworks show, so he flew his little twin engine over to New Mexico and bought up the best fireworks display he could pay for. And if you can believe it, he loaded them in his plane and flew back to the farm. Knowing nothing about fireworks except playing with them, the folks came to Ray Schnepf Farms to celebrate America. He continued celebrating the Fourth of July and provided the residents of the small farming community of Queen Creek a Fourth of July they could remember.
During the '90s and first part of 2000s, the Kiwanis’s Club of Queen Creek took over the responsibility of the Fourth of July. The Schnepf’s just let them use their land at no charge, to bring the community together to "Celebrate America on July 4th." After several years, the Kiwanis’s Club couldn’t continue on as the producers, so it was taken over by Christ the King Church in 2014 and the “Freedom Project” was created. It’s now returned to the third and fourth generation of the Schnepf family to provide a spectacular fireworks show for those in Queen Creek and surrounding communities.
Gilbert 4th of July Celebration
Get ready for a night full of live performances, aerial entertainment, a drone show and fireworks show. For live entertainment, Chad Freeman & Redline will take the stage followed by Dirt Road - The Jason Aldean Experience and a Kenny Chesney Tribute.
With fireworks beginning at 9 p.m. the event is from 4 to 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 4.
Where: 3005 E. Queen Creek Road, Gilbert.
Cost: Free entry, $15 on-site parking per car. VIP tickets available for purchase.
More information: gilbertaz.gov.
Red, White, & Beers BBQ at O.H.S.O Gilbert
Join O.H.S.O Brewery and Distillery at their Gilbert location for barbecue and beers. The Park will be full of outdoor games and activities from 2 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, July 4. Not only will your ticket bring you a day full of barbecue and beer, but a portion of the money will be donated to our local heroes.
With your general admission ticket you’ll be able to choose two O.H.S.O beers on tap to enjoy along with a Bomb Pop Shot. Kids general admission tickets come with the festive face-painting experience.
There will also be a barbecue station where guests can make their own burger at the grill and choose between a variety of toppings and sides.
Where: 335 N. Gilbert Road, Gilbert.
Cost: $40 adult admission, $15 child admission.
More information: ohsobrewery.com/event/red-white-beers-bbq-at-o-h-s-o-gilbert.
Chandler’s All-American Bash
Join Chandler from 7 to 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 4 at the Dr. A.J. Chandler Park Stage Plaza for live music, yard games, food vendors, a five-minute pyrotechnic show and more. Cold Shott and Hurricane Horns will provide live entertainment.
While enjoying your evening stop in and check out all the nearby local businesses. There will be some “Star-Spangled Specials” to take advantage of.
Where: 178 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler.
Cost: Free admission.
More information: chandleraz.gov.
Arizona Celebration of Freedom
Coming back for the 15th year is Arizona's cool Independence Day event. From 6 to 10 p.m. guests can enjoy a live performance by Bayou Bandits, a laser light show and Revolutionary War reenactments, a naturalization ceremony for new U.S. citizens, a celebration splash zone and picnic games.
For returning guests they can look forward to the all new “fest on wheels” with PrimeTime Grill semi-truck. Taking place downtown Mesa, the fireworks display will start at 9:30 p.m.
Where: 263 N. Center St., Mesa.
Cost: Free entry and activities.
More information: azcelebrationoffreedom.com/entertainment.
Tempe 4th of July Celebration
Gates open at 4 p.m. for Tempe’s 73rd Annual 4th of July Celebration. This family-friendly event has a Family Fun Zone full of activities for all ages. There will be an inflatable village, rock climbing walls, games and more.
In need of a refreshment? Stop by any of their food vendors. Guests can find everything from hot dogs to barbecue, roasted corn, hamburgers, snow cones and ice cream. Sit back, relax and enjoy live music while waiting for the sun to go down and the fireworks spectacular to begin.
Where: 80 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe.
Cost: $5 - $12 for general admission, $50-$100 VIP.
Apache Junction 4th of July Fireworks Celebration
Celebrate this Independence Day with the City of AJ Parks and Recreation at Superstition Shadows Park. Activities will be going on all day starting at 7:15 a.m. with the Fourth of July Volleyball Tournament. Registration for the tournament is free while space lasts. Eight teams with up to 10 players each will go head to head. Guests can also choose to spend the morning at the Superstition Shadows Aquatic Center. Daily pool admission rates still apply.
The main event begins at 6 p.m. and ends with the fireworks extravaganza at 8:30 p.m. There will be everything from live music to games, vendors, food booths and field activities including a bicycle, wagon and tricycle float contest.
Where: 1091 W. Southern Ave., Apache Junction.
Cost: Free admission.
More information: apachejunctionaz.gov/700/4th-of-July.
Fourth at the Fountain
Fountain Hills will be bringing back its annual Fourth of July event. Bring blankets, snacks and chairs to cozy up for an evening full of live music, food trucks, dancing, games, prizes and more.
The event is from 7 to 9 p.m. ending with a spectacular firework display over the world-famous fountain. Rock Lobster will take the stage from 7:30 to 9 p.m.
Where: 12925 N. Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills.
Cost: Free entry.
More information: experiencefountainhills.org/events/2024/fourthatthefountain.
We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort
Celebrate “4 Days of the 4th” at We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort. The party starts at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 3 with the Stars and Stripes Rooftop Party. General admission tickets start at $20 a person.
On Thursday, July 4 the resort will be hosting a Cadillac CT5 Giveaway and T-Shirt Giveaway. Craig Morgan will perform on Friday, July 5, with tickets starting at $65. Ending the four-day event on Saturday, July 6 is the Stars and Stripes Bingo Bash, where participants will be competing for over $117,000 in cash and prizes. Guests can also test their luck in the $2,000,000 Heist Kickoff.
Where: 10438 WeKoPa Way, Fort McDowell, in the Fountain Hills area.
Cost: Price varies.
More information: wekopacasinoresort.com.
Scottsdale 4th of July Celebration at Westworld
Get ready for the largest fireworks display in Scottsdale history. The festivities begin at 5 p.m. and end at 9:30 p.m. with the fireworks show. There will be over 50 health and wellness booths, the beloved backyard barbecue by M Culinary, a bull-riding rodeo, mutton busting for kids, the popular Cold Beer & Cheeseburgers Summer Slider Eating Championship, a snowy Winter Wonderland, games and more.
The fifth annual Parade of Heroes will honor leaders in seven different areas of service; Neighborhood Hero, Veterans Hero, Health Hero, Entrepreneur Hero, Safety Hero, Fire Safety and Community Hero.
Where: 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale.
Cost: Prices start at $25.
More information: scottsdale4th.com.
Freedom Fest at the Princess
There is so much going on at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess this Fourth of July. Guests can expect everything from concerts at the Princess Lagoon Lawn to fireworks, twilight dive-in movies, catch-and-release fishing derbies and more.
Don’t miss out on their Saluting Heroes and Vintage Air Show happening at 4:45 p.m. on Thursday, July 4. Retired veterans will hop back into the pilot seat and fly over the resort. There will be a dozen military aircrafts that flew in Korea, Vietnam and World War II.
Where: 7575 E. Princess Dr., Scottsdale.
Cost: Price varies.
More information: scottsdaleprincess.com.
Red, White & Choo Choo
On Sunday, June 30 from 4 to 9 p.m. McCormick Stillman Railroad Park will be full of “a mix of old-school attractions and modern family fun” in celebration of Independence Day. Before the fireworks start at 9 p.m. there will be water slides, foam cannons, face painting, bounce houses, unlimited train and carousel rides, food trucks and more.
An Arizona favorite, Rock Lobster, will perform at 7:30 p.m.
Where: 7301 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale.
Cost: $15 per person.
More information: therailroadpark.com.
Scottsdale Philharmonic Independence Day Concert
On Sunday, June 30 from 4 to 6 p.m. the Scottsdale Philharmonic will be hosting their Independence Day concert at La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church in Scottsdale.
With the mission being to “enrich our Valleywide cultural landscape by providing a professionally trained symphony orchestra,” the nonprofit offers free tickets to students and active military/veterans.
Some musical selections for the Independence Day concert include the “National Anthem,” “Armed Services Medley,” “Eternal Father Strong to Save,” “Samuel Ward’s America the Beautiful,” “Gould’s American Salute,” “Sousa’s Stars and Stripes,” and more.
Where: 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale.
Cost: $20 for general admission.
More information: scottsdalephilharmonic.com.
Fourth of July Weekend at Mountain Shadows
There’s a lot happening Fourth of July weekend at Mountain Shadows. Pick and choose which events to check out, or plan a staycation for the holiday. For anyone dining in at Hearth ‘61, they’ll have Veuve Clicquot specials by the glass and bottle all weekend. Enjoy live music from 8 to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
On Friday, July 5 locals can join in on a sunset yoga session at 6:30 p.m. for $10. The session is complimentary for resort guests.
On Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. there will be a DJ and saxophonist playing poolside. To end out the weekend, on Sunday they’ll be hosting a sound healing session at 10 a.m. Tickets are $30 for anyone not staying at the resort.
Where: 5445 E. Lincoln Dr., Paradise Valley.
Cost: Price varies.
More information: mountainshadows.com.
Hyatt Regency Scottsdale’s “Blues, Brews and BBQs”
Celebrate Independence Day with a staycation at the beautiful Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch.
During the Blues, Brews and BBQ fest guests can try different beer selections on tap, indulge in the off-the-grill dining options and enjoy music from a poolside DJ from July 4 to 6. Room specials are available for guests staying over the Fourth of July weekend and come with free tickets to the July 4 Celebration at Scottsdale’s Westworld.
Where: 7500 E. Doubletree Ranch Road, Scottsdale.
Cost: Room rates start at $169, use code FOURTH when booking a room.
More information: hyattregencyscottsdale.com.
July 4th Freedom Run
Start off your Fourth of July with a peaceful run or walk along the canal. There are options for a 5K, 10K or half-marathon. With your registration fee you’ll get a finisher’s medal and a themed shirt for the run. You’ll get a good workout while giving back to the community at the same time. 10% of the net proceeds and 100% of the fundraising will be donated to the nonprofit, Hope for the Warriors.
Where: 5802 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix.
Cost: Prices range from $37 to $45.
More information: raceroster.com/events/2024/85273/july-4th-freedom-run-phoenix.
Phoenix 4th of July Dance Convention
Located within the JW Marriott Camelback Inn Resort and Spa in Scottsdale, this Phoenix Fourth of July dance event takes place July 4-7. As “one of the original West Coast Swing Conventions,” they strive to “honor the traditions of where West Coast swing originated and bridge to what it will become.”
The weekend will be full of Top Champions, leveled workshops, intensives, WSDC competitions, social dancing, junior dancing, late night parties, a cocktail party and more. The full schedule can be found online.
Where: 5402 E. Lincoln Dr., Scottsdale.
Cost: $169 for members, $189 for non-members.
More information: phoenix4thofjuly.com.
The Phoenician
In addition to Phoenician’s Wings and Wonder Summer Offers, they’ll be offering "poolside fun" and themed parties in celebration of Independence Day. On Thursday, July 4 they’ll be hosting a Red Rockin’ Drive in Movie and Wild Water Slide, featuring a family movie night with snacks and cocktails.
On Friday, July 5 guests can attend the White Hot Jamboree or the Blue Blazin’ Superhero Party on Saturday, July 6.
Where: 6000 E. Camelback Rd., Scottsdale.
Cost: Price varies.
More information: thephoenician.com.
Musical Instrument Museum
Get out of the heat and explore everything the Music Instrument Museum (IM) has to offer. Patriotic highlights include the “All-American Bands: From Battlefield to Bandstand” exhibit, “Acoustic America: Iconic Guitars, Mandolins, and Banjos,” and tributes to legendary American musicians including Prince and Elvis Presley.
MIM will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. More information about exhibits, galleries, events, concerts and education can be found online.
Where: 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix.
Cost: $20 per adult, $15 for teens, $10 for children, free for kids 3 years and under.
More information: mim.org.
Anthem Independence Day
Anthem’s Independence Day celebration will have everything from fireworks to rides, water slides, live music, various food vendors and more. From 5:30 to 10 p.m. on Wednesday, July 3 the community is invited to bring their lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the fun-filled night.
Near the food vendors will be the Rotary Beer Garden. The Western Fusion Band will take the stage from 6:30 to 9 p.m.
For younger guests, there will be a glitter tattoo station, roving entertainers and all their slides, rides and activities. Ride wristbands purchased before July 2 are $20. Guests can also buy them on-site for $25.
Where: 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem.
Cost: Free admission and parking. Ride wristbands cost $20-$25.
More information: onlineatanthem.com.
Star Spangled Fourth
Spend your Fourth of July at the ballpark accompanied by live music, drinks, food trucks, bounce houses and more. From 6 to 10 p.m. on Thursday, July 4 there will be plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained while waiting for the fireworks to end the night.
Where: 1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear.
Cost: Free.
More information: goodyearaz.gov.
Wickenburg 4th of July Spectacular
Join the Town of Wickenburg this Fourth of July from 6 to 9 p.m. Before the fireworks start at 9 p.m. there will be tons of activities. Guests can expect everything from a variety of interactive games to live music from Zero Gravity Fighters, bounce houses, water slides, face painting, food trucks, an off-road showcase and more.
Where: 3020 W. Wickenburg Way, Wickenburg.
Cost: Free.
More information: wickenburgaz.gov/1313/Special-Events.
More information: tempe4th.com.
Avondale Light Up the Sky Celebration
Celebrate the Fourth of July at the Phoenix Raceway. Gates open at 6 p.m. with the fireworks closing out the event at 8:45 p.m. Guests in general admission will have an area to tailgate, a variety of food trucks to try, live music, games and a Kid Zone to keep the younger ones entertained.
VIP guests will get access to a private patio, raffle prizes, gourmet food and a live DJ. There’s plenty to do while waiting for the 25-minute fireworks show to begin.
Where: 7602 Jimmie Johnson Dr., Avondale.
Cost: Free general admission, VIP tickets available for purchase.
More information: avondaleaz.gov/government/departments/parks-recreation/events/light-up-the-sky-independence-day-celebration.
Independence Day Celebration at Buckeye Airport
Celebrate tailgate style. Get comfy and bring along some blankets, chairs, your favorite games, friends and family. The event is from 6 to 9 p.m. and features All-American eats and treats available from a variety of food trucks and vendors. There will be a concert for live entertainment and the night will end with a drive-in-style fireworks show.
Where: 3000 S. Palo Verde Road, Buckeye.
Cost: Free admission.
More information: buckeyeaz.gov.
Fourth of July Weekend at the Wigwam
The Wigwam is celebrating the holiday with festivities all weekend July 4-7. Guests can expect everything from live music, DJs at the pool, fire and LED shows at the Wigwam Bar, fireworks shows and more. Each day’s schedule can be found on their website.
Where: 300 E. Wigwam Blvd., Litchfield Park.
Cost: Price varies.
More information: wigwamarizona.com.
Dining
LDV Winery Tasting Room’s Patriotic Paint N’ Sip Party
Perfect for all wine lovers, LDV Winery is hosting a specialty Paint N’ Sip event. Presented by Paint the Party Mobile Art Studio, participants will make their own Fourth of July wooden sign.
Admission fee comes with instruction and materials. Join LDV Winery on Wednesday, July 3 from 6 to 8 p.m. and have the perfect sign for your yard to display on the Fourth of July. Happy hour discounts will be available.
Where: 7134 E. Stetson Dr., Suite B110, Scottsdale.
Cost: $33 per person.
More information: ldvwinery.com.
Z’Tejas
Raise a glass to “freedom and flavor” with Z’Tejas Fourth of July offerings. Enjoy cocktails with a patriotic twist. Signature cocktail, La Bomba, will come with a Bomb Pop garnish, creating a delicious red, white and blue drink. Patrons can also enjoy 32-ounce margaritas to go.
Where: 7221 W. Ray Road, Chandler and 8300 N. Hayden Road, Suite D-101, Scottsdale.
Cost: Price varies.
More information: ztejas.com.
Roaring Fork’s 'Dinner on Us'
The Roaring Fork is bringing back their “Dinner on Us'' promotion this Fourth of July. Serving a wide variety of American cuisine, customers have the chance to try two dishes for the price of one. Starting at 4 p.m. with the purchase of an entrée you’ll get the second one free.
Some menu favorites include the fish tacos, bacon wrapped pork tenderloin, shrimp and grits, cedar planked salmon and more.
Where: 4800 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 1700, Scottsdale.
Cost: Price varies.
More information: roaringfork.com.
The Phoenician Tavern
In addition to their Triple Dog Dare summer menu special, which includes two courses, plus a drink for $25 a person, The Phoenician Tavern will have an extended all day happy hour. On Thursday, July 4 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. guests can take advantage of their happy hour specials.
Specials include $8 draft beers, $3 off specialty cocktails, $10 mules, house margaritas, Phoencian spiked tea and $11 glasses of wine. There will also be food specials ranging from $8 to $12.
Where: 6000 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale.
Cost: Price varies.
More information: thephoenician.com.
J&G Steakhouse
Located on the fifth floor of The Phoenician, J&G Steakhouse will offer a special summer Culinary Countdown dinner on the Fourth of July. For $65 a person, patrons will be served an amuse bouche and two courses.
Call 480-214-8000 or visit their website to make a reservation. The Phoenician’s fireworks spectacular will begin at 9 p.m.
Where: 6000 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale.
Cost: $65 per person.
More information: jgsteakhousescottsdale.com.
Lakeside Bar and Grill
Lakeside Bar and Grill is celebrating the Fourth of July all weekend. From July 4 to 7, guests dining in will get $2 off any shareable appetizer. Looking for a drink to match your patriotic fit? Order the special firecracker margarita for $7 or try out their three-layered red, white and blue cocktail.
Where: 9980 W. Happy Valley Pkwy., Peoria.
Cost: Price varies.
More information: lakesidebarandgrillaz.com.
SugarJam the Southern Kitchen
Allow your Fourth of July festivities to be accompanied by a delicious scratch-made pie. Pre-order your pie by Friday, June 28 and pick it up anytime from June 29 to July 3.
Where: 15111 N. Hayden Road, Suite 170, Scottsdale.
Cost: Pies start at $27.95.
More information: sjsouthernkitchen.com.
