As the 4th of July approaches, Northeast Georgia is gearing up for a spectacular celebration of Independence Day. From ski shows on Lake Burton and breathtaking fireworks displays, festivals, lively parades and family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best 4th of July events in Northeast Georgia.
1. Lake Burton 4th of July events (July 4) and Fireworks Extravaganza (July 6)
Experience one of the most stunning fireworks displays over the pristine waters of Lake Burton. This annual event draws crowds from all over, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty an d patriotic celebration. Arrive early to enjoy the Ski Patriots Salute to America Show from 11:30am-3:00 pm) or get in some exercise with the annual Lake Burton Fun Run. Enjoy a weekend of boating, swimming, eating in Rabun County’s many farm-to-table restaurants, hiking, and picnicking before the Lake Burton fireworks light up the sky on July 6.
2. Helen’s Annual Independence Day Celebration (July 4)
Step into the Bavarian-themed village of Helen for a unique 4th of July experience. The day starts with a fun-filled parade and ends with a spectacular fireworks show over the Chattahoochee River. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore local shops and enjoy authentic German cuisine in this picturesque town.
Click HERE to check out all the weekend activities in Helen.
3. Hiawassee’s Music and Fireworks at the Fairgrounds (July 4)
Head to the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawassee for an unforgettable evening of live music and fireworks. The event features performances by local artists, a variety of food stalls, and an impressive fireworks show over Lake Chatuge. This is a great spot for families and groups looking to celebrate together.
4. Lake Rabun Fireworks (July 5), Rabun Ramble Road Race (July 6), and Wooden Boat Regatta (July 7)
Lake Rabun’s annual Wooden Boat Regatta and fireworks show have been beloved traditions for Lake Rabun residents for over 30 years. Saturday morning kicks off the Rabun Ramble Road Race 5k and 10k. Rabun County was named the wooden boat capitol of Georgia, and you can see why if you head over to this scenic lake to see a multitude of colorful, decorated boats float across Lake Rabun.
See all the Lake Rabun weekend festivities HERE.
5. Sky Valley GA Independence Day Celebration (July 5)
Don’t miss out on the fun at Georgia’s highest elevation city, where you can enjoy a day of fun for the whole family with bbq, a duck race, parade, fireworks and more!
Check out all the Sky Valley weekend activities HERE!
6. Dillard GA (July 4)
The famous Dillard House in Dillard GA once again hosts it’s annual 4th of July celebration with live music, a BBQ cookout, and fireworks.
7. Dahlonega’s 4th of July Festivities (July 4)
Check out all the weekend festivities in the charming Hallmark-movie town of Dahlonega. Dahlonega’s historic town square offers a full day of 4th of July festivities, including a parade, car show, live music, a kids’ adventure zone, food trucks, and arts and crafts. The celebration concludes with a spectacular fireworks display that illuminates the historic gold rush town.
8. Lake Blue Ridge Fireworks (July 4) & Blue Ridge Fireworks Train (July 5)
Spend the weekend in Blue Ridge and enjoy a variety of festivities, including a parade, fireworks, and a special train ride.
Watch the Lake Blue Ridge Fireworks on July 4 at dusk. The best viewing spots are Morganton Point Recreation Area, from a boat on Lake Blue Ridge near the Lake Blue Ridge Dam, and the Lake Blue Ridge Marina.
On July 5, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway will host a Fireworks Special Train to the Copper Basin Fireworks display. Departing Blue Ridge at 7 p.m., the train will arrive in time for the fireworks and return to Blue Ridge by 11 p.m.
Explore all weekend activities in Blue Ridge (https://www.blueridgemountains.com/events/)
9. Lake Chatuge Boat Parade (July 4) & Fireworks (July 4)
Whether you’re sitting on the shoreline waving at the boats as they pass or behind the wheel of a boat sporting your best red, white, and blues, the Boat Parade on Lake Chatuge is the perfect way to start the holiday. The fireworks display on July 4 can be viewed along the lake, or grab a seat at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds and enjoy live music starting at 6:30 p.m. before the spectacle begins at 9:45 p.m.
Explore all the weekend events near Lake Chatuge (https://www.golakechatuge.com/)
10. The quaint city of Demorest celebrates every year with their Glorious 4th of July event, featuring a 5K, a parade, food vendors, crafts, and plenty of other family-friendly activities.
City of Demorest event calendar
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable 4th of July
- Arrive Early: Many events attract large crowds, so arriving early ensures you get a good spot.
- Stay Hydrated: July can be hot in Northeast Georgia. Bring plenty of water and stay hydrated.
- Protect Your Skin: Northeast Georgia can be deceptively hot! Don’t forget the suncreen and the bugspray to keep mosquitoes at bay in the evening!
- Pack-in, Pack-Out: Be sure to take out everything you take in (bottles, trash, sparkler sticks, etc) to keep northeast Georgia beautiful!