This Thursday will mark 243 years since America declared itself an independent nation. In 2019, Independence Day is a chance for people across the country to get outside and enjoy a day of food, family, friends, and, of course, fireworks.

Atlanta and its surrounding suburbs are fully embracing the Fourth of July spirit, with plenty of events for everyone.

Daytime Events

Peachtree Road Race

The AJC Peachtree Road Race is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. The biggest 10K in the world starts with the Wheelchair Division at 6:25 a.m. and continues until noon. Those not participating can watch the race along the route, which starts near Lenox Square and ends in Piedmont Park.

Stranger Things 3 Viewing Party and Trivia

Netflix’s Georgia-filmed hit, Stranger Things, will release its third installment on Independence Day. Come back to Hawkins, Indiana, with a viewing party or trivia night for those 21 and older. Prices, times, and locations vary by event.

July 4th Fest at Six Flags Over Georgia

Six Flags is partnering with Coca-Cola to celebrate Independence Day in the park from July 3–6. Special events include fireworks each night, a “cool zone” to beat the July heat, and exclusive ride times when you buy a can of Coke.

Parades

Parades are an integral part of any Fourth of July celebration. Below are the routes and start times of several metro area parades. All are followed by concerts, food, and fireworks.

4th of July Celebration, Peachtree City

Route: Peachtree Parkway South to the Recreation Complex/Huddleston Elementary School
Start time: 9 a.m.

Dunwoody Fourth of July Parade, Dunwoody

Route: Mount Vernon Road and Jett Ferry Road to Dunwoody Village
Start time: 9 a.m.

Let Freedom Ring Parade, Marietta

Route: Roswell Street Baptist Church to North Marietta Parkway
Start time: 10 a.m.

Pied Piper Parade, Decatur

Route: First Baptist Church of Decatur to Decatur Square
Start time: 6 p.m.

Fireworks Displays

Centennial Olympic Park

This Thursday, the Southeast’s biggest fireworks show will return to Centennial Olympic Park for another year. Located close to Georgia Tech’s campus, the park will host food trucks and a two-hour set by DJ Yvonne Monet. Admission is free, and gates open at 7 p.m.

The Battery at SunTrust Park

The Atlanta Braves take on the Philadelphia Phillies at 7:20 p.m. Stick around after the game to watch fireworks over SunTrust Park. If baseball isn’t your thing, The Battery offers plenty of places to eat, shop, and enjoy the gameday atmosphere. Click here to browse Braves single-game tickets.

Historic Fourth Ward Park

Located just a few miles east of campus, Atlanta’s Historic Fourth Ward Park will host a free, family-friendly Fourth of July celebration starting at 5 p.m. Festivities include cornhole and food trucks.

Stone Mountain Park

Stone Mountain Park’s Fantastic Fourth Celebration runs from July 1–7 and is free except for the cost of parking. Day passes are also available to explore the park’s other attractions before the Lasershow Spectacular and fireworks, beginning at 9:30 p.m.

As of right now, scattered thunderstorms are expected in Atlanta throughout the day on Thursday. Make sure to check the weather forecast before venturing to any outside events and plan accordingly.