Independence Day celebrations have long been tourism draws, and the 4th July fireworks near Yellowstone National Park are no exception. While there are no fireworks permitted within the grounds of the national park, there are several towns within an hour’s drive from the five entrances that will be celebrating the occasion.
The closest gateway town, West Yellowstone, puts on an all-day affair, full of Americana festivities like a firefighter’s barbecue and a “wild west” rodeo. Listen to music in the mountains at Big Sky Resort’s Fourth of July concert, or enjoy a pancake breakfast and parade in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
Community events aside, July is one of the best (albeit busiest) times to visit the nation’s first designated national park. So if you are one of the thousands already planning on exploring the area’s geothermal wonders and spotting its diverse wildlife this 4th of July weekend, consider detouring to some of these events and enjoying the unique experience of a fireworks show with the spectacular mountain backdrops that only Yellowstone can offer.
Read on for the best Independence Day events and 4th of July fireworks near Yellowstone National Park, with all your most pressing questions answered.
Are there fireworks in Yellowstone National Park on the 4th of July?
Fireworks are not permitted within the grounds of Yellowstone National Park, but there are five towns within an hour’s drive from park entrances—West Yellowstone, Jackson Hole, Big Sky, Cody, and Bozeman—that have 4th of July fireworks celebrations.
Is July 4th a good time to visit Yellowstone?
Summer is one of the best times to visit Yellowstone National Park. The weather is pleasant, wildlife is abundant, and it’s possible to visit every corner of the two million-plus acre national park (which closes certain areas during other seasons). However, the Fourth of July weekend is one of its most visited and crowded of the year—with everything on offer, it’s no surprise why.
Where to watch Fourth of July fireworks near Yellowstone National Park
West Yellowstone, Montana
Located just beyond of the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park—which is the gateway closest to geyser country, where the famous Old Faithful is located—West Yellowstone knows how to celebrate July 4th. Save some energy after a day full of activities, from the aforementioned firefighter barbecue to an evening parade and rodeo, to catch the 10:15 p.m. fireworks show, best viewed from Pioneer Park.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
After the Town Square Shootout, a lively reenactment of the wild west tradition that happens everyday at 6 p.m., make your way to Teton Village at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort for some of the best 4th of July fireworks near Yellowstone National Park; or to the town of Jackson, which lies at the base of Snow King Mountain, for live music and a fireworks display that illuminates the iconic Teton mountain range in the distance. Both shows begin at 10 p.m.
Cody, Wyoming
For over 100 years, this small town has celebrated the nation’s birthday in a big way—John Wayne was even the grand marshall of its parade in 1976. The town goes all out for a five-day celebration: there’s bull riding, stampede rodeos, an arts festival, and of course, fireworks. The firework show can be seen from anywhere downtown and has an accompanying radio show on 106.7 FM.
Big Sky, Montana
About an hour’s drive north of Yellowstone’s west entrance, Big Sky is throwing a bit of an unconventional Fourth of July celebration: No fireworks will be found at Big Sky, which could be a good option if you’re traveling with kids or pets who may be sensitive to the noise or light. Instead, there will be a 5k race, a pool party with a DJ, and live music with views of Lone Peak to cap out the evening.
About the author: Originally from Salt Lake City, Scott Bay is an avid outdoorsperson who knows his way around Yellowstone National Park and its many nooks and crannies.
