Independence Day Celebration

Independence Day Celebration Details

In 2026 the City's Independence Day Celebration returns to Point State Park, Liberty Avenue, North Shore Great Lawn, and the Grandview Park Bandstand for the grandest fireworks spectacle the city has seen in decades!

Please note that some locations will be subject to a security screening.

Security Screening Details

This event is committed to creating a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience. Intervention with any impaired or intoxicated guests will be handled in a prompt and safe manner. Anyone entering this event is subject to a bag check, including but not limited to bags, purses, fanny packs, backpacks, and coolers. All bags must be clear and are subject to search upon entry and within the event. Prohibited items include but are not limited to:

Any other items determined to be potential safety hazards.

Clear Bag Policy

The City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages event attendees not to bring any bags, but attendees will be able to carry the following style and size bag, package, or container into the event.

• Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC, must not exceed 12"x6"x12", or one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc or similar).
• Logo on bag cannot exceed 4.5" tall by 3.4" wide.
• Small non-clear bags that do not exceed 4.5"x6.5" in size, with or without a handle or strap, may be carried into the event. An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at gate.
• Diaper bags containing medically necessary items are permitted after proper inspection at the gate.
• Each member of a family, including children, will be able to carry an approved clear bag and clutch purse.

Event Schedule

Schedule - Graphic Flyer(PDF, 310KB) ADA Accessible Schedule(PDF, 47KB)

Event Map

Events Map - Graphic Flyer(PDF, 362KB)

Ferris Wheel

See Pittsburgh like never before July 1 - July 5 by taking a breathtaking ride above the city skyline on the Piatt Companies Salute to Service Wheel. Soar high above the festivities enjoying unforgettable views of the Golden Triangle, our rivers, and the 4th of July celebration below. With 50% of proceeds going to a veterans non-profit, tickets expected to sell quickly so secure your ride today!

Partner Events

The City is proud to partner with the Downtown Partnership, the Cultural Trust, National Flag Foundation, Heinz History Center, Ft. Pitt Museum, the County, VisitPittsburgh, the Symphony, Fort Pitt Blockhouse and America250 PA to bring you a week of programming.

Time Capsule

On June 4, 2026, Mayor O’Connor announced that a new time capsule will be sealed in the City-County Building and invited residents to share their hopes and ideas with the City Archives for what to put in the capsule for the Pittsburgh community 100 years from now. Ideas for “Pittsburgh’s Time Capsule of Tomorrow” can be submitted here from now until July 1, 2026.

Press & Awards

Named the Best July 4th Celebration in the Country by USA Today readers, Pittsburgh's Independence Day Celebration has become a nationally recognized destination for patriotic festivities. Discover the awards, media features, and stories that continue to put Pittsburgh in the national spotlight.

Pittsburgh's 4th of July 2026

In 2026, Pittsburgh joins communities across the nation in commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States of America.

2026 Partners

The City of Pittsburgh extends a special thank you to our valued Independence Day Celebration 250 partners that make this event possible.