Abby VakulskasIf all the drama surrounding funding for Milwaukee’s famous Fourth of July fireworks has you craving a sparkly spectacle, we have you covered – and you don’t even have to wait until July! Here’s a look at some of the best fireworks shows all summer long.
PrideFest
June 7, 9:30 p.m. | Henry Maier Festival Park
This celebration holds the title of being the first LGBT pride festival in the country to have fireworks, with the help of the Bartolottas back in 1995. Don’t miss the show on the third day of festivities!
Summerfest Big Bang Fireworks
June 26, 9:30 p.m. | Henry Maier Festival Park
Each year, Summerfest ends its opening day with a dazzling display. And if you miss out on the live show, WISN-TV (Channel 12) will broadcast the show at 10:30 p.m.
Family Fun Before the Fourth
June 29, dusk | Thiensville Village Park
Think of Family Fun as spring training for Independence Day: Get in gear with a parade and fireworks before braving the crowds on the actual Fourth.
Milwaukee Fourth of July Fireworks
July 3 | Great views from Veterans, Juneau and South Shore parks
In early April, this holiday tradition was saved by the Milwaukee Brewers, American Family Insurance, and Ted Kellner, who jumped in as sponsors in the final hour. After such a close call, the fireworks are sure to feel extra-special this year.
Festa Italiana
July 20, 10:30 p.m.; July 21, 10 p.m. | Henry Maier Festival Park
Celebrate the best of Italy with three days packed full of food, music, and cultural activities. Then round out your festivities with their fireworks display, Abbondanza in the Sky.
Port Fish Day
July 20, 9:30 p.m. | Port Washington Lakefront
There’s nothing fishy about this annual festival to raise money for local organizations outside of the copious amount of fish fry. Just a short drive north of Milwaukee, Port Washington offers a great view of fireworks over the lake.
EAA AirVenture
July 24 and 27, 8-10 p.m. | EAA grounds, Oshkosh
If you’re game to trek up to Oshkosh, you’ll be rewarded with a pretty spectacular night air show as part of the massive annual celebration of all things aviation. Mixing planes with pyrotechnics? Heck yes.
German Fest
July 26, 10:30 p.m. | Henry Maier Festival Park
Kick off one of Milwaukee’s most beloved festivals with fireworks and frankfurters. Prost!
Editor’s note: This story has been updated to correct the date of the Pridefest fireworks.