If you're looking for the best places to watch fireworks in Bowling Green or celebrate in the afternoon before they light up the sky this Fourth of July, you're in the right place. From sunny daytime festivities to dazzling fireworks displays after dark, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate. We’ve rounded up some of the top spots to enjoy not just the evening shows, but a full day and even a full weekend, of Fourth of July fun!

54th Annual Hayward Minton Thunderfest

June 28, 3:00 PM

The Kiwanis Club of Bowling Green is excited to host the 54th annual Hayward Minton Thunderfest on Saturday, June 28 at Ephram White Park. This long-standing community favorite promises a full day of fun, food, and entertainment for all ages.

Visitors can enjoy a wide selection of food trucks, shop from local vendors, and take part in family-friendly attractions. There will be a dedicated kids' zone featuring games, inflatables, and plenty of activities to keep little ones entertained. Throughout the day, local and regional musicians will take the stage with live performances to keep the energy high.

The evening wraps up with a headline concert by Rowdy Shea, a former contestant on The Voice, followed by a large-scale fireworks show that promises to be a memorable finale.

More than just a good time, Thunderfest is also a major fundraiser for the Kiwanis Club of Bowling Green. All proceeds from the event go directly to support local nonprofits and youth programs in the community.

Mark your calendar, bring your friends and family, and come enjoy a day of summer fun while supporting a great cause.

 

Friday Night Lights + July 4th Fireworks at Beech Bend!

July 4th, 8:00 PM

Starting July 4th, Beech Bend Park is lighting up your summer Fridays with Friday Night Lights & FIREWORKS! The fun begins with a special concert by the Fornter Brothers at 8:00 PM, followed by a spectacular fireworks show that will light up the night sky.

Experience Beech Bend Park like never before, after dark! As the sun sets, the rides come alive with dazzling LED lights, transforming the park into a glowing wonderland. Ride the Kentucky Rumbler through the dark for a thrilling new twist, or be mesmerized by the brilliant light displays on Thunder Bolt, Vortex, and more. Over the past few years, the park has upgraded many attractions with stunning LED light packages, and now’s the perfect time to see them shine!

Admission includes Unlimited access to all rides from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM and entry to Splash Lagoon Water Park from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM

The fireworks may only happen this Fourth of July Friday, but the fun doesn't stop there! Friday Night Lights runs every Friday from July 4th through August 1st, so gather your friends and family and make it a night to remember at Beech Bend Park!

 

 

Friends of Barren River Lake 4th of July Fireworks Show

July 4th, 9:00 PM

If you're looking for a beautiful spot to watch Fourth of July fireworks this year, Barren River Lake State Resort Park is hosting a fireworks show that starts at 9 p.m. on Thursday, July 4. The display is organized by the Friends of Barren River Lake and promises to be a great way to wrap up the holiday.

There are several good places to watch the show. One of the most popular is the hillside at the state park, where families often gather with blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy the open view of the night sky. If that area fills up, the nearby tennis courts also provide a great vantage point and tend to be a little less crowded.

For those who want a more unique experience, watching from the water is also an option. Boaters can anchor near the display area and enjoy the show from the lake. Just keep in mind that a fireworks safety zone will be marked off, and it’s important to stay clear of that restricted area for your own safety and the safety of others.

It’s worth noting that the beach, which is typically a favorite hangout spot for the Fourth, is still underwater from recent flooding and will be closed this year. That same flooding has also affected parking. There will be about 350 fewer parking spaces available than usual, so be prepared for a short walk. Arriving early is a good idea if you want to find a convenient spot and settle in without rushing.

So pack your lawn chairs, bring your favorite people, and get ready to watch the sky sparkle over Barren River Lake. It’s going to be a night to remember!

Bowling Green Hot Rods 4th of July Spectacular

July 4th, 6:00 PM

What can be more of a perfect patriotic celebration than enjoying America's favorite pastime while you eat a hot dog, cheer on the Hot Rods, and finish the night with a fireworks show? We think that is pretty hard to beat!

The Hot Rods are the city’s Minor League Baseball team. The Bowling Green Ballpark is located downtown and is packed with family-friendly energy, from theme nights and fireworks to fun games between innings. The stadium is clean and modern with great sightlines from every seat. Whether you're a die-hard baseball fan or just looking for a fun evening out, Hot Rods games deliver. 

Good news if you can't make the 4th of July celebration, the following day on the 5th, they will also have a fireworks show after the game, as well as appearances from Tennessee Titans Mascot T-Rac and Titans Cheerleaders, as well as a Titans Jersey auction!

The Hot Rods are saying this will be the largest fireworks show in South Central Kentucky, so make sure you grab your tickets on before they sell out. Sit back and soak in the local spirit as the Hot Rods take the field and wrap up the game with a beautiful display of fireworks as you sit back and enjoy.

Celebrate America at Jackson's Orchard

July 4th & 5th, 9:00AM

Looking for a fun and relaxing way to spend your Independence Day? While this event does not feature fireworks, you can still head out to Jackson’s Orchard for a 4th of July celebration filled with family-friendly activities, great food, and the natural beauty of one of Bowling Green’s hidden gems. 

Nestled in the rolling hills just outside of town, Jackson’s Orchard offers a peaceful escape with plenty to do. Kids can enjoy the large playground, while families can explore the expansive orchard grounds and take in the scenic surroundings.

This daytime event is perfect for those looking to celebrate earlier in the day. Visit The Apple Kitchen and cool off with a refreshing peach lemonade or an apple cider slushie, and treat yourself to a fruit-filled fried pie. Apple, peach or raspberry filled and just right for a summer afternoon. If you're hungry for more, grab a sandwich from their lineup of local favorites like the Kentucky Proud pulled pork BBQ or Groovy Gus chicken salad on sourdough.

Before you head home, stop by the farm market to pick up some fresh seasonal fruit. It’s peach season, but you’ll also find apples, plums, locally grown produce, plants, and other regional goods.

Whether you're looking to unwind with your family or just enjoy some fresh summer flavors, Jackson’s Orchard is a great spot to celebrate the 4th in a more laid-back way.

While these Fourth of July activities are a commonality to celebrate Independence Day, be sure to check out our Events this Weekend page for additional ideas and things happening around Bowling Green. Make sure to check out hotel accommodations to spend more time in the area, and don’t forget to grab a bite at one of our restaurants. 

Request a Visitors Guide if you need more ideas for planning your trip, and you can also subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter to stay in the know on all things Bowling Green.