Updated: July 4, 2026
One of Columbus’ most loved traditions is its yearly 4th of July celebration.
Mark your calendar: BOOM! will return Friday, July 2, 2027.
Red, White, and Boom! is the largest fireworks display in the Midwest, and after decades downtown, it’s practically a Columbus 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
Early July in Columbus usually means heat. Expect highs in the upper 80s to low 90s with the humidity to match, so hydrate and dress for a warm, muggy evening down by the river. Pop-up thunderstorms are always in play this time of year, and there’s no rain date. If storms move in, organizers will try to get the show off by midnight, and if that’s not possible, it’s canceled for the year. Check the forecast before you head down.
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 bus 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 head back to the Park and Rides after the fireworks, with departures from Broad and High running from about 10 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. 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 6:30 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 25 minutes. For the best view, stake out a spot at Bicentennial Park, Dorrian Green, Belle Street, Marconi Blvd, Washington Blvd, or the Civic Center. Spots are first come, first served, and you can start claiming yours after 6 p.m. the night before (skip the stakes and posts, though, which aren’t allowed). For more information on Red, White, & Boom! click here.
Red, White & Boom FAQ
What time do the fireworks start?
The fireworks launch at 10 p.m. from Genoa Park, just east of COSI, and light up the sky over the Scioto River for about 25 minutes.
Is Red, White & Boom on July 3rd or the 4th?
It’s held the night before the Fourth. In 2026 that was Friday, July 3, and BOOM! returns Friday, July 2, 2027.
How do I get downtown, and where do I park?
Streets close and parking fills up fast, so COTA’s Zoom to Boom is the easiest bet: park free at one of four Park and Ride lots and ride the bus in and back for $4 (adults) or $2 (kids). If you’d rather drive, aim for a downtown garage and get there early.
What can I bring, and what’s not allowed?
Bring chairs or a blanket, snacks, and comfortable shoes. Leave the alcohol, grills, temporary pools, and generators at home; those aren’t permitted.
What happens if it rains?
There’s no rain date. If storms roll in, organizers will try to fire the show by midnight, and if that’s not possible, it’s canceled for the year.
What are future dates for Red, White, & Boom?
- Friday, July 2, 2027
- Monday, July 3, 2028
- Tuesday, July 3, 2029
