There’s no shortage of patriotic spirit in Pasadena, and this week it will be on full display as fireworks light up the skies across Anne Arundel County.
With sunset occurring around 8:30 p.m. this week, most fireworks displays are expected to begin between 9:00 and 9:30 p.m. As always, fireworks schedules are weather dependent and subject to change.
Whether you’re looking for a hometown celebration or planning a short drive to a neighboring community, here’s your guide to Independence Day fireworks and festivities happening throughout the area.
Fireworks Closest to Pasadena
Gibson Island Fireworks
Saturday, July 4
One of the closest fireworks displays to Pasadena returns to Gibson Island on Independence Day. The annual fireworks show is hosted by the Gibson Island Club and is a private event, but boaters can enjoy spectacular views from the Chesapeake Bay near the clubhouse shoreline and the mouth of the Magothy River.
Fireworks: Approximately 9:15-9:20 p.m.
- Private event
- Best viewed by boat from the Chesapeake Bay
- Rain date: Sunday, July 5
Glen Burnie Improvement Association Fireworks
Thursday, July 3
Just minutes from Pasadena, the Glen Burnie Improvement Association will once again host one of the area’s most popular community fireworks displays at Sawmill Creek Park.
The park opens at 4:00 p.m., giving families plenty of time to settle in before the fireworks begin.
Fireworks: 9:00 p.m.
Location:
Sawmill Creek Park
301 Dorsey Road, Glen Burnie
Know Before You Go
- Free admission
- Rain date: Sunday, July 5
- Additional viewing available from 3rd Avenue Park
- Free parking at Monsignor Slade Catholic School with overflow parking at the Light Rail Station
- Food available from the Glen Burnie Boys Baseball concession stand
- No alcohol, pets or personal fireworks permitted
- Do not park at Cromwell Shopping Center—vehicles will be towed
Historic Hancock’s Resolution Patriotic Day
Sunday, July 5 | 1:00-4:00 p.m.
While there won’t be fireworks, this Pasadena tradition is a wonderful way to celebrate America’s 250th birthday.
Historic Hancock’s Resolution will host an afternoon of patriotic activities including live music, flag-folding demonstrations, lessons on properly carrying and presenting the American flag, history presentations, games and family-friendly activities.
Admission is free.
More Fireworks Around Anne Arundel County
Thursday, July 3
American Legion Post 226 Independence Day Celebration
Edgewater
Spend the afternoon and evening enjoying food, live music, family activities and fireworks at American Legion Post 226.
Highlights
- Tiki Bar opens: 3:00 p.m.
- Live music by All You Need: 6:00 p.m.
- Fireworks: 9:00 p.m.
- Free and open to the public
- Food vendors, face painting and ice cream available
Sherwood Forest Fireworks
Severn River
This private community display is best viewed by boat on the Severn River, although portions of the show are visible from select community beaches.
Fireworks: Around 9:00 p.m.
Chesapeake Beach Independence Day Celebration
Calvert County
Only about 30 minutes from Pasadena, Chesapeake Beach hosts an evening filled with live music, food trucks, family activities and fireworks over the Chesapeake Bay.
Schedule
- Festivities: 5:00-9:30 p.m.
- Fireworks: Approximately 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, July 4
Annapolis Independence Day Celebration
If you’re looking for a full day of Fourth of July festivities, Annapolis once again offers one of Maryland’s premier celebrations.
The day begins with special America 250 programming throughout downtown before the annual parade steps off in the evening.
Parade
6:30 p.m.
The parade travels from Amos Garrett Boulevard along West Street, through Church Circle and down Main Street to City Dock.
Harbor Fireworks
Approximately 9:15 p.m.
Launched from a barge in Annapolis Harbor, this is the largest public fireworks display in Anne Arundel County.
Best Viewing Areas
- City Dock
- Susan Campbell Park
- Eastport waterfront
- Severn River shoreline
- Naval Academy Bridge area
- By boat in Annapolis Harbor
Tips
- Arrive early—popular viewing areas fill quickly.
- Spa Creek Bridge will be closed to vehicle traffic until approximately 10:00 p.m.
Herrington Harbour South Fireworks
Rose Haven
Residents and boaters along Herring Bay can enjoy fireworks launched from Herrington Harbour South.
Fireworks: Approximately 9:15 p.m.
The marina grounds are private, but the display is visible from boats on Herring Bay and many nearby waterfront properties.
Fourth of July Parades Around Anne Arundel County
Several communities will kick off Independence Day with hometown parades before the evening fireworks.
- Severna Park Independence Day Parade — 10:00 a.m.
- Cape St. Claire Parade & Beach Party — Parade at 10:00 a.m.
- Shady Side Fourth of July Parade — 10:00 a.m.
- Eastport Kids Parade — 10:30 a.m.
- Admiral Heights Bike Parade — 10:00 a.m.
- American Legion Post 226 Community Parade (Edgewater) — Noon
A Few Safety Reminders
As you celebrate Independence Day, remember that fireworks can be frightening for pets. Before heading out for the evening:
- Keep pets safely indoors during fireworks.
- Make sure gates are securely closed.
- Check that pets are wearing collars with current identification tags.
- If your pet is especially anxious, consider creating a quiet indoor space away from windows.
Wherever you celebrate this Fourth of July weekend, Real Pasadena wishes everyone a safe, fun and memorable Independence Day as our nation celebrates its 250th birthday.