5 ways to celebrate the Fourth of July in Cincinnati

The LaRosa’s Balloon Glow at Coney Island will light the sky with illuminated, hot-air balloons on July 3. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

The LaRosa’s Balloon Glow at Coney Island will light the sky with illuminated, hot-air balloons on July 3. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

The United States will be turning 242 soon — still a teenager in “nation years.” You can celebrate our country’s birthday either locally or with a road trip. Either way, here’s the info you need to know about some of the biggest fireworks displays near Cincinnati:

RED, WHITE AND KABOOM

Easily the biggest community Fourth of July Event, the city of Fairfield boasts four locations (parties) to view the Rozzi’s Fireworks show. They are Harbin Park (the actual launch site), Village Green Park, Marsh Lake, and the Fairfield Aquatic Center. Harbin Park and Village Green Park will feature food and live entertainment. Marsh Lake offers fishing for an additional $5 for non-season ticket holders, and the Fairfield Aquatic Center offers swimming and games.

When: July 3, dusk-11 p.m.

Cost: Free

More Info: 513-867-5300 or www.fairfield-city.org

LAROSA’S BALLOON GLOW

Every year for the past two decades, Coney Island has filled the sky with illuminated hot-air balloons. Live music at the Moonlite Square Gazebo begins at 6 p.m., and the Glow runs from 8-10 p.m., followed by a Rozzi’s fireworks show over Lake Como.

Coney rides and the Sunlite Water Adventure will open all day (for the regular admission price), so families can choose to make a day of it.

Where: Coney Island, 6201 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati

When: July 3, 6-11 p.m.

Cost: Parking is $9 before 2 p.m. and $12 after; general admission for rides and pool ranges from $11.50 and $21.95.

More Info: 513-232-8230 or www.coneyislandpark.com

RED, WHITE AND BLUE ASH

Classic pop/rock stars will provide the entertainment for Blue Ash’s Fourth of July party. John Waite, best known for his 1980s hit singles, “Missing You” and “When I See You Smile” (with Bad English), will take the stage at 6 p.m. Pat Benatar and husband/bandmate, Neil Giraldo, will follow at 8:15 p.m. Rozzi’s Fireworks will take over at 10 p.m.

This family-friendly event will also include plenty of food and drink.

Where: Summit Park, 4335 Glendale Milford Road, Blue Ash

When: July 4, 4 p.m.-10:35 p.m.

Cost: Free

More Info: 513-745-8550 or www.blueashevents.com.

LIGHT UP LIBERTY

Light Up Liberty is a family-oriented party that includes food, live music, carnival rides, a car show and fireworks at 10 p.m. Light Up Liberty is an alcohol-free event.

What: Light Up Liberty

Where: Princeton Pike Church of God, 6101 Princeton Glendale Road, Liberty Township

When: July 1, 6-10:15 p.m.

Cost: Free

More Info: 513-867-1995 or www.lightupliberty.com

KING’S ISLAND FOURTH OF JULY SPECTACULAR

King’s Island is known for its nocturnal fireworks during its regular season, but for the Fourth of July, they’ll be putting on a special, 20-minute presentation at 10 p.m. Afterward, they’ll stay open until midnight so parkgoers can continue to enjoy the rides.

Where: Kings Island, 6300 Kings Island Drive, Mason

When: July 4, 10 p.m.

Cost: No additional cost

More Info: 513-754-5700 or www.visitkingsisland.com

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