Looking to start a new July 4th tradition this year? Forget the same-old, same-old celebrations in the big city—hands down, there is no better place to celebrate Independence Day than Hocking Hills, Ohio. Ohio’s scenic wonderland provides an amazing backdrop for fireworks displays that light up the sky.
To many, July 4th means three things: barbeques, fireworks, and family. You can enjoy the best of all three in Hocking Hills.
The Barbeque
Every year, millions of Americans celebrate Independence Day by getting together with friends and family and throwing some food on the barbeque. In summer, the local farmers’ markets in Logan and Athens are in full swing, so you can pick up everything you need for your big feast while at the same time supporting local businesses. Many of our cabins come equipped with a charcoal or gas barbeque, so you can prove your grilling prowess even though you are away from home.
The Fireworks
Of course, the main attraction of any Fourth of July celebration is the fireworks. Here are the top fireworks displays in Hocking Hills:
- Thunder in the Valley. Over the past few years, Thunder in the Valley has become the premier fireworks display in southeast Ohio, attracting people from across the state. The event takes place at Hocking College, with vendors, games, and other festivities followed by a spectacular display of fireworks choreographed to music. You don’t even have to worry about driving and parking—the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway runs a shuttle from the Nelsonville depot to Hocking College. So, don your red, white, and blue and hop aboard!
- County fairgrounds. The Hocking County Fairgrounds in Logan hosts a fireworks show every year, and the Fairfield County Fairgrounds in Lancaster features a parade, rides, and concessions in addition to the fireworks display.
- Local parks. For those looking for a more low-key celebration, many parks in the area have smaller fireworks displays starting at dusk.
Other July 4th Weekend Activities for the Family
All through the summer, Hocking Hills plays host to music and arts festivals, outdoor concerts, adventure treks, and a variety of other activities. So, if you are coming down for the fireworks, why not make it a weekend and enjoy some of the other top attractions in the region: Spend an afternoon swimming and picnicking in Hocking Hills State Park, explore the popular Hocking Hills’ Flea Market, or learn about local history at the Columbus Washboard Company. See our Hocking Hills Activities section for a full list of things to do in southeast Ohio.
Perhaps instead of a busy, fun-filled weekend, you are looking for a little downtime. We’ve got you covered. Schedule a massage session in Logan, take a relaxing stroll through Old Man’s Cave or Ash Cave, or just bring a book and sit on the porch of your Hocking Hills cabin. After all, it is a holiday.
Summer is one of the most popular times to visit Hocking Hills, so make your plans today. Check out our Specials page for discounts, special offers, and add-on packages to make your July 4th Hocking Hills getaway a success.
Photo Credit: “Barbeque” by M.Minderhoud [CC-BY-SA-3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
