One of Columbus’ most loved traditions is its yearly 4th of July celebration.
Every July 3, the city pulls out all the stops and shows its patriotic colors for a night out on the town.
Red, White, and Boom! is more than just the largest fireworks display in the midwest, it’s practically an institution. Make the most of the night with this guide of useful tips and things to do during Columbus’ loudest and brightest night of the year.
Weather
It’s gonna be a hot one this year. During the day, you can expect partly sunny skies, with a high near 94, including heat index values as high as 100. In the afternoon, particularly between 8-11 p.m., there’s a decent chance we’ll have some thunderstorms. So prepare accordingly!
Transportation
COTA: Zoom to Boom
During events like these, getting to and from Downtown is always going to take some time. An easy way to make that less hectic and more efficient is by taking the COTA. Zoom to Boom will offer riders the opportunity to park at four different locations throughout the city and then ride the bust into the heart of downtown in time for the fireworks. Then, once the show is over, you can hop back on your corresponding bus and get back to the Park and Ride.
Roundtrip tickets are $4 for adults and $2 for kids. Buses will be leaving from downtown after the fireworks starting 10:30 p.m. and run through midnight. For more details about specific routes and to plan your ride, please visit COTA’s Red, White & Boom page.
Important things to know
Launch Site
The fireworks will be launched from Genoa Park, east of COSI and over the river at 10 p.m. Choose your viewing spot with this in mind and you should get a good view of all the explosive festivities.
What to bring
If you’re heading down for the full day of festivities, it’s best to be as prepared as possible. You’ll want to wear comfy shoes, bring a blanket or chairs to sit in, and of course, some snacks. There will be plenty of food and beverage vendors around though, so don’t worry if you don’t feel like packing a cooler.
What not to bring
Alcohol, grills (either gas or charcoal), temporary pools, and generators are prohibited.
The Fun Stuff
Parade and Street Festival
At 11 a.m., a street festival will kick off, featuring more than 100 local and national vendors selling food, Pepsi products, adult beverages, glow sticks and more. The Ford Oval of Honor parade will begin at 5:30 p.m.
The parade route kicks off at the corner of Main St and 2nd St, turns north on Front St and concludes at Spring St.
Fireworks
The main event kicks off at 10 p.m. with the explosions aimed just over the Scioto River. Make sure you don’t miss out on one of the most beautiful fireworks displays in the entire Midwest!
The fireworks set off at 10 p.m., July 3 and last for approximately 26 minutes. For the best view make sure you check the areas by Bicentennial Park and Civic Center. For more information on Red, White, & Boom! click here.