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Where to Watch 4th of July Fireworks by Boat in Minnesota

Jun. 23 2022 Events By Ruth Johnson

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Where to Watch 4th of July Fireworks by Boat in Minnesota 


One of the best things about owning a boat is getting a front row view to watch the fourth of July fireworks on the water, the night skies and their reflections on the water are absolutely stunning.


Nearly 12 million registered boats across the country participate in 4th of July celebrations each year. To avoid boater gridlock and keep your crew safe:

  1. Be aware of boaters around you, there are sure to be an extra amount of people on the water celebrating the holiday 

  2. Be wary of boating and drinking, particularly when compounded by sun and a long day on the water.

  3. If you need spare life jackets for your extra July 4th stowaways, borrow one from the BoatUS Foundation’s Kids’ Life Jacket Loaner site.

  4. Keep your boat afloat! A good rule of thumb for boat capacity: make sure everyone has a seat. 

  5. Stay untangled & charged: TowBoatUS reports that many July 4th assistance calls are for anchor line disentanglements and battery jumps.

  6. Bring a spotlight. Night boating can make visibility difficult, especially in new uncharted waters

Ready to make your plans? Read on for fireworks shows near you. 


Lake Minnetonka, Excelsior - The Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Chamber of Commerce produces and hosts the only public 4th of July fireworks event on Lake Minnetonka. The show kicks off at 9:50 pm on the south side of the lake in Excelsior Bay. Lake Minnetonka is one of the most popular lakes in the state with its close proximity to the Twin-Cities, so if you want a front row spot to the show it's best to get there early. 


St. Croix River, Stillwater - Celebrate independence day in the All-American historic river town of Stillwater! The City of Stillwater puts on a huge fireworks display over the St. Croix river offering views from anywhere downtown and live music in Lowell Park and Pioneer Park. The fireworks show starts at dusk (approximately 10 pm) over the St. Croix River and Historic Lift Bridge.


Lake Superior, Duluth - Fourth Fest at Bayfront Festival Park is the largest firework display in the upper Midwest. The show starts at 10:10. If you plan to watch in the harbor it is important to note that The Minnesota Slip Bridge (the blue pedestrian bridge between the DECC and Canal Park) will be lowered and closed to marine traffic from 8 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. The Aerial Lift Bridge will stay down and be closed to marine traffic from 7 p.m. until 1 a.m.


Gull Lake, Nisswa - If family fun is what you’re after, then the Freedom Day Celebration Nisswa might be a perfect fit for you. The fireworks show will be launched from near the Grand View Lodge on Sunday the 3rd at 10 pm and will be visible from the northern part of the lake. 


Lake Superior, Grand Marais Harbor - Get away from the bustle of the city and enjoy what summer on the north shore has to offer. Fireworks over the Grand Marais Harbor will be launched around 10 pm.



Lake Pepin/Mississippi River - Lake City is one of the Midwest’s most scenic natural playgrounds. With miles of shoreline, beautiful beaches, world-class angling, and plenty of ways to get out on the water, you’ve just found your new favorite lake escape! Fireworks will be lit off at dusk on the fourth at City Point near the Marina. 


White Bear Lake - With a population of nearly 25,000 WBL maintains its small-town character. The fourth of July fireworks show takes place during the town's annual summer ritual, Manitou Days. For 50+ has been a favorite of locals and visitors. The firework’s show will be launched at dusk near West Park and Memorial Beach and will be visible from the northern part of the lake. 


Green Lake, Spicer - Come out to Saulsbury Beach at dusk on July 4 to view the annual fireworks display above Green Lake.

Big Sandy Lake, McGregor - Watch fireworks light up the sky over Big Sandy Lake between Goffs and Webster's Bay on July 3. Tune your radio to KKIN 94.3 FM for a live simulcast from Floe Island.


Crosslake - Starting July 2 at 10 p.m., you can attend the 52nd anniversary of Crosslake's annual Fourth of July fireworks display. View the fireworks on the water near Sand Island. Tune into Skeeter 101.5 FM shortly before dusk to enjoy this year's show choreographed to music.