Blog postWhere to Catch the Best Bang for Your Buck This Fourth — Fireworks in Monroe County, IL template

Where to Catch the Best Bang for Your Buck This Fourth — Fireworks in Monroe County, IL

Looking to watch fireworks without fighting bridge traffic or parking lot chaos? Monroe County’s got you. These hometown celebrations bring the sparkle with fewer crowds, more charm, and—let’s be honest—better concessions.

Here’s where to plant your lawn chair this year:

📍 Columbia’s 47th Annual July 4th Celebration

Date: Thursday, July 4
Location: American Legion Memorial Park
This event has deep roots—first held in 1976 for the bicentennial and still going strong. Come early for kids’ games, concession booths, patriotic merch, and live music from Brian McKelvey (5:30–8:30 PM). Fireworks begin at dusk, weather permitting. Bonus: you might run into Uncle Sam himself wandering the park.

📍 Red, White & Blue in the Loo (Waterloo)

Date: Thursday, July 4
Location: Monroe County Fairgrounds
Waterloo goes full Americana with this festive bash. “Red, White & Blue in the Loo” features food, music, community pride, and a fireworks show that rivals the big city—minus the mayhem. Follow their Facebook page for up-to-date details and times.

📍 Valmeyer Jaycees Mid-Summer Celebration

Date: Saturday, July 6

Location: Borsch Park
Didn’t get your fill on the Fourth? Valmeyer’s got your encore. The Jaycees Mid-Summer Celebration is a local favorite, with good food, relaxed vibes, and another night of fireworks under the stars. A great way to wrap up your Independence Week.

✨ Bonus Round: Your Own Backyard

Some of the best displays are unofficial—courtesy of that one neighbor who went a little too hard at the fireworks stand. If you've got a good porch view, consider it VIP seating.

Wherever you watch, enjoy the lights, the freedom, and the extra slice of pie. And if you’d like to live closer to the action next year… well, you know who to call.

#LiveWhereYouLove #MoveWithMandy #KWPinnacle #MMG #MonroeCountyIL #RedWhiteAndBoom