Red, White, and Boom: The 4th of July – Incredible Celebrations Across Northeastern Pennsylvania
Celebrate the 4th of July across NEPA: From Scranton to Wilkes-Barre and the many small towns of Northeastern Pennsylvania
The Fourth of July in Northeastern Pennsylvania is more than just a holiday; it’s a vibrant display of community spirit, patriotic pride, and dazzling fireworks that light up the summer sky.
From the bustling cities of Scranton and Wilkes-Barre to the charming towns in between, NEPA truly comes alive with celebrations for all ages.
This year, as we reflect on the freedoms we cherish, let’s dive into some of the most anticipated events that make Independence Day so special in our region.
Scranton's Scrantastic Spectacular: A Courthouse Square Tradition
When it comes to Fourth of July celebrations in Scranton, the Scrantastic Spectacular is an absolute must-attend.
Held annually on July 3rd at Courthouse Square, this event transforms downtown Scranton into a lively festival atmosphere.
The afternoon kicks off with family fun, a tempting array of food vendors, and engaging kids’ activities, providing entertainment for everyone before the main event.
The highlight of the evening is undoubtedly the live performance by the Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic. Their stirring patriotic concert sets the perfect tone as dusk settles, building anticipation for the grand finale.
And what a finale it is! The Scrantastic Spectacular culminates in one of the largest and most breathtaking fireworks displays in NEPA, painting the night sky with brilliant colors and booming sounds.
It’s a truly unforgettable experience that draws crowds from across the region.
Wilkes-Barre's Old-Fashioned Fourth of July: A Day of Fun at Kirby Park
Just a short drive down the valley, Wilkes-Barre hosts its cherished Old-Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration at the iconic Kirby Park.
On July 4th, the park comes alive from noon until 10 PM with a full day of festivities designed for the entire family.
Imagine strolling through over 40 food and craft vendors, finding unique treasures and delicious treats. For the kids (and the young at heart!), Huey’s Amusements offers a variety of rides and games, ensuring smiles and laughter throughout the day.
Live entertainment is a cornerstone of the celebration, featuring local favorites like Triple Fret, Eddie Day & TNT, and Fuzzy Park, leading up to a special evening performance by the Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic‘s brass and percussion ensemble.
As darkness descends, the sky above Kirby Park becomes the canvas for a spectacular fireworks display, typically beginning between 9:00 and 9:30 PM. It’s a classic celebration that embodies the spirit of community and American tradition.
Batter Up for Fireworks: RailRiders Games at PNC Field
For sports fans looking to combine America’s favorite pastime with a dazzling pyrotechnic display, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders offer an exciting option at PNC Field in Moosic.
The Triple-A affiliate of the New York Yankees often has special games scheduled around the Fourth of July weekend that are capped off with fantastic fireworks shows.
For sports fans looking to combine America’s favorite pastime with a dazzling pyrotechnic display, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders offer an exciting option at PNC Field in Moosic. The Triple-A affiliate of the New York Yankees often has special games scheduled around the Fourth of July weekend that are capped off with fantastic fireworks shows.
This Independence Day weekend, the RailRiders are hosting the Lehigh Valley IronPigs for a multi-game series. On Friday, July 4th, 2025, you can catch the RailRiders in action against their rivals, followed by an extended fireworks show presented by the PA Lottery. The patriotic fun continues on Saturday, July 5th, with another home game against the IronPigs, also followed by a post-game fireworks display set to patriotic music.
Attending a RailRiders game at PNC Field is a wonderful way to enjoy the holiday weekend. The lively atmosphere of minor league baseball combined with the excitement of a post-game fireworks show makes for a perfect family outing. Be sure to check their schedule and grab your tickets early, as these holiday weekend games are always popular!
Celebrations Across NEPA: More Towns Join the Fun
The Fourth of July spirit is strong throughout NEPA, and many smaller towns host their own events. While these can change from year to year, here are some of the towns that have traditionally held celebrations:
Carbondale: Carbondale has been known to hold fireworks displays, often at the City Hall. It’s a great option for those in the northern part of Lackawanna County.
Clarks Summit: The Rotary Club of the Abingtons often sponsors an annual fireworks display, which draws a crowd from the Abington Heights area and beyond.
Jessup: Jessup has held fireworks shows at the Veterans Memorial Field, offering a more localized community feel.
Moscow (North Pocono): The North Pocono area, particularly Moscow, is known for its annual fireworks extravaganza, a major event for that part of the county.
Pittston: While there might not be a large parade, Pittston and nearby West Pittston have been known to have fireworks displays and other community activities.
Wyoming: The town of Wyoming has hosted an “America the Beautiful” concert for Independence Day, often featuring a professional orchestra or band.
For the most up-to-date information, it’s always best to check with the individual borough’s or township’s websites, or with local event calendars and community groups as the holiday approaches.
These smaller, local celebrations are often the heart of NEPA’s Fourth of July festivities.
No matter where you choose to celebrate in NEPA, the Fourth of July promises a memorable experience filled with joy, community, and the dazzling spectacle of fireworks.
So gather your family and friends, embrace the patriotic spirit, and enjoy all that Northeastern Pennsylvania has to offer this Independence Day!
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