Saint Louis July 4th Fireworks, Parades and More: 2018 Guide

ST. LOUIS, MO — Fireworks are a big deal in St. Louis. Luckily, Patch has you covered with an up-to-date schedule for 2018. So, whether you're new to the area, looking for a different show than the one you attended last year, or just want the inside scoop on how to beat the traffic, read on.

Oh, and be sure to check with your local police department before setting off any consumer fireworks. Not that you'd be able to tell from all the cracks and booms you can hear around St. Louis after sunset in recent days, but they are banned in many municipalities — like University City, where violators can face up to a $1,000 fine.

Fair Saint Louis
Fair Saint Louis, often called America's biggest birthday party, is back at the (newly-renovated) Arch grounds this year, and we can't start anywhere else. The three-day extravaganza will feature music from country music superstar Martina McBride, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, and many others, plus a nationally recognized fireworks display each evening. Admission is free, but expect a crowd. Your best bet is to park at one of the 21 Metro Park and Ride lots in Missouri or across the river in Illinois, and take the MetroLink into downtown. Or check out getaroundstl.com for a list of downtown parking garages.

Gateway Arch Grand Opening
Make room on your schedule for the grand opening of the newly-renovated Museum at the Gateway Arch July 3. Attendees will receive cookies and a special coin commemorating the event (while supplies last). Following the ribbon cutting at 10 a.m., the museum will open to the public and there will also be a celebration with food trucks, games and live music. See the Fair St. Louis entry above for parking options.

Fireworks River Cruise
Or maybe fighting the crowds isn't your thing. In that case, why not get an up-close view of the fireworks from a comfortable seat as you cruise the Mississippi River? Tickets are $48 and the boat leaves the dock at 7:30 p.m. for a two-hour cruise July 4, 6 and 7.

St. Charles Riverfest
This two-day celebration features live music, food and craft vendors, a carnival and parade. Oh, and fireworks. There are fireworks. Come Tuesday July 3 for live music and a street carnival, and return the next day for a parade starting at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 4, an all-day street carnival, and fireworks beginning at 9:20 p.m. Public parking is available on the west side of Riverside Drive, Second and Water Streets, North Main Street and at the Foundry Arts Center. The Lewis and Clark Boat House lot and City Hall parking garage are also good options.

JB Blast at Jefferson Barracks Park
Located in south St. Louis County, JB Blast features a free concert by Starlifter, a seven-piece Air Force band, performing everything from pop hits to jazz and traditional patriotic songs. The event goes from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. July 3.

Kirkwood Freedom Festival
The annual Kirkwood Freedom Festival will kick off at July 4 at 7 p.m. in Kirkwood Park (if the weather is bad, it will be rescheduled for the next day). Music includes local band Fanfare. West Adams Avenue will be closed to traffic from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. due to heavy pedestrian traffic, the city says, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Webster Groves Community Days
Beginning July 1 with a carnival and Lions Club barbecue, this is a can't-miss four day event. $35 will buy unlimited rides, plus you'll be able to enjoy live local bands and great food. Don't miss the Miss Webster Groves Pageant on July 1 at 7:30 p.m. or the Independence Day parade featuring dozens of patriotic floats and local marching bands on July 4 at 10 a.m. Fireworks will start at 9:30 p.m. on July 3 and 4. The best place to park is probably at Hixson Middle School ($10 per car) or at the Webster Groves Rec Center if you don't mind walking a little farther.

Hazelwood Pyro-Musical Fireworks Display
The city hasn't posted updated information on their annual event yet, but expect fireworks to return to White Birch Park and begin around 9 p.m.

Chesterfield 4th of July Fireworks Celebration
One of the biggest and best fireworks displays in the metro area, the show (beginning July 4 at 6:30 p.m. at the Chesterfield Mall) will feature live music from Fat Pocket, a high-energy party band, dancing, circus performance, carnival games, inflatable bounce castles, putt-putt golf, a kids' obstacle course, and, of course, fireworks beginning promptly at 9:30 p.m.

Wentzville July 4th Parade & Liberty Fest
This year's theme is "Celebrating the American Dream," the City of Wentzville says, and everyone is invited to build their own float for the annual parade (registration required). The parade begins at 10 a.m. at Holt High School, and floats will be judged for best overall, Mayor's Choice, and best musical entry. Family activities begin at noon in Progress Park, with free swimming, rock climbing wall, inflatables, kids crafts and live music. Fireworks start at 9:05 p.m.

O’Fallon’s Heritage & Freedom Fest
O'Fallon's July 4 celebration features free concerts July 3 and 4, carnival rides with a colorful midway complete with games, popcorn, sno-cones, cotton candy, funnel cakes and other festival food, a parade (starting at 9:30 a.m. on July 4), and, of course, fireworks (scheduled for 10:15 p.m. July 3 and 9:30 p.m. July 4).

Ferguson Fourth of July Festival
Ferguson's July 4 fest isn't actually on the fourth, its June 30, the Saturday before. Enjoy a parade, unique vendors and other family activities, with a fireworks display starting at 9:15 p.m. in January-Wabash Park.

Coca-Cola July 4th Fest at Six Flags St. Louis
Looking for something a little more corporate-sponsored? Six Flags St. Louis is holding a five-day July 4 celebration beginning June 30. Ride The Boss, the theme park's mammoth coaster, or just float the Lazy River in the Hurricane Harbor water park. The event will feature live music, games, and an All-American Food Festival. Each day during the event will end with a fireworks display five minutes before the park closes. Oh, and a vintage Grumman Avenger, a World War II-era torpedo bomber, will be flying over the park at 2 p.m. on July 4, so be sure to catch a glimpse.

What did we miss? Let us know in the comments.