The extended 4th of July celebration in Ann Arbor and its metropolitan area offers all kinds of entertainment. Patriotic folks can celebrate Independence with a city center parade, concerts, and fireworks displays. To salute the Fourth, consider visiting the Ann Arbor Summer Festival, band performance, running a race, or watching the fireworks in Willow Metropark.
Ann Arbor Summer Festival (June 14–30, 2024)
An early opportunity to celebrate Independence is the annual Ann Arbor Summer Festival, aka A2SF, a favorite community tradition since 1984. The season typically opens in early June and continues until the 4th of July weekend. A series of outdoor events run at the Top of the Park near Ingalls Mall and Washington Street. The festive program features concerts, art exhibitions, film screenings, and other family-friendly activities.
Ann Arbor Civic Band's Star Spangled Spectacular at Burns Park (July 3, 2024)
If you are going to come to the city for an early 4th of July celebration, you can also catch one of the Ann Arbor Civic Band's concerts, which take place at Burns Park each Wednesday throughout the summer. For the Independence Day, the band prepared a special performance—Star Spangled Spectacular. Live entertainment begins at 7:30 pm, with call time at 6:45 pm. The concert is free for the public to enjoy, but feel free to bring your blankets or lawn chairs to enjoy the spectacle comfortably.
Ann Arbor Jaycees 4th of July Parade (July 4, 2024)
The unbeatable winner is surely the Ann Arbor Jaycees 4th of July Parade, which traditionally gathers cheerful crowds in the Briarwood Mall on July 4th. In 2023, a cozy 4th of July festival was added to the Tree Town celebration. The venue will be full to the brim with food trucks, entertainment options, and a DJ-hosted party. The parade of American freedom starts at 7:30 pm, while the festivities generally run from 5 pm to 9 pm.
Ann Arbor Firecracker 5K Run (July 4, 2024)
The most active people will definitely appreciate the option to celebrate the 4th of July in such an active manner. The annual Ann Arbor Firecracker 5K takes place likewise at Briarwood Mall (at 100 Briarwood Circle) in the morning at 8 am before the city's iconic Jaycees parade. The racing event offers several distances, namely Firecracker 5K, One Mile Fun Run, and Kids' 200-Meter Dash.
What's more, the participants can also compete in the Hot Dog Eating Division, where they have to complete the race right after chowing down four hot dogs. Others may choose to take part in the You're a Grand Old Flag Carrying Division run, which they need to complete while holding an American flag. Admission is about $45 and free for kids if they're accompanied by an adult.
Willow Metropark 4th of July Celebration (July 1, 2024)
A great option for the 4th of July out-of-town gateway is Willow Metropark, located 30 minutes away from Ann Arbor. The organizers planned a whole day full of fun festivities, including a children's playground, pool, and a live performance of American Ages Band starting at 6 pm. The event begins at 6 pm and ends at 10:45 pm after a magnificent fireworks display at 10 pm. No fee is charged if you're on foot, but you need a Huron-Clintron Metroparks pass to enter with a vehicle.
