1. On a Friend’s Boat
ALLI WATTERS, DIGITAL & CULTURE EDITOR
You might be thinking to yourself: “Alli, Wouldn’t it be better to be on your own boat?” And to that I say, “No, my dear naive reader, it is not.” The Milwaukee River and Lake Michigan will be positively flooded with boaters for the lakefront fireworks (July 3 at 9:30 p.m.), and to be in charge means dealing with the stress of traffic. If you’re not the boat owner, that’s not your issue. Every few years or so, I get an invite to join a friend’s floating Independence Day plans, and that’s when I see the best fireworks around. Floating on the water, it almost feels like you’re a part of the show! And at the end, all of the boats honk their horns in applause. But please, make sure the driver knows how appreciated they are for making this explosive night under the stars possible and hassle-free (for you).
2. Reservoir Park
CHRIS DROSNER, EXECUTIVE EDITOR
I’m not really a fireworks guy, so take this for what it’s worth, but I’ve always wanted to watch the Milwaukee’s big fireworks show from a more remote perch than the crowded lakefront parks – Reservoir Park up at the foot of Riverwest.
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
3. Mitchell Park
JUAN CARLOS GARCIA MARTINEZ, EDITORIAL INTERN
I love going to Mitchell Park on July 4. There’s plenty of open green space to settle down and enjoy the show. Plus the vibrant blasts of fireworks are even more mesmerizing alongside the Domes’ halo lights!
4. Potters Lake in East Troy
BRIANNA SCHUBERT, ASSOCIATE DIGITAL EDITOR
I have been going to my grandparents’ house on Potters Lake in East Troy for the Fourth of July fireworks since I was a kid. So to me, it’s the best spot. This year, the lake is having the fireworks on July 3 at dusk, and there’s a boat parade – with the cutest decorated boats and pontoons – earlier in the evening. Fun fact: When I was younger, I dressed up in a green pillowcase to be the Statue of Liberty for the boat parade. It was quite a sight.
5. Franklin Fireworks
AW
It’s me again! MilMag‘s resident fireworks fanatic, here to tell you about another fantastic show. Franklin’s fireworks is a not-so-hidden gem in the ‘burbs. I grew up in the neighborhood, and it’s a running joke that all the city’s tax dollars go to Fourth of July explosives – the show is that impressive. This year the fireworks are on Saturday night (July 1 at 9:30 p.m.). I recommend getting there pretty early to snag a good spot, and super duper early if you’re planning to brave the funnel cake line.
