Skip the Backyard Fireworks. Here's How To Celebrate the Fourth in Salt Lake.

If you're looking for a way to celebrate the Fourth of July without lighting personal fireworks, you've got plenty of options. Between professional shows, drone displays, concerts, and community festivals, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy the long holiday weekend.

Watch Professional Fireworks

Leave the pyrotechnics to the professionals this year and watch fireworks in Murray, West Valley City, West Jordan, Riverton, Magna, and dozens of other Utah communities.

South of the valley, Thanksgiving Point in Lehi and Stadium of Fire in Provo both cap off the evening with major firework displays. Stadium of Fire will also feature Brad Paisley, Nitro Circus, and a drone show.

Looking for a Quieter Option?

Drone shows are becoming a popular alternative to traditional fireworks. They're quieter, smoke-free, and a little easier on pets, wildlife, and people with sensory sensitivities. You can catch drone shows at:

• Jordan Park (July 3): Featuring live music, food trucks, a 500-drone show, and a $15 food voucher for the first 1,500 attendees.
• Millcreek Common (July 3): Independence Eve celebration with lucha libre wrestling, aerialists, fire performers, and ending with a drone show around 10 p.m.
• Heber City Park (July 3): As part of the Red, White, & Blue Festival, the drone show will follow a tribute to Toby Keith.
• Park City Mountain Resort (July 4): A choreographed drone show around 10 p.m., synced to music on KPCW 91.7 FM.

More Ways to Celebrate

Not every Fourth has to revolve around fireworks or drones for that matter. Here are a few ideas if you'd rather keep things low-key:

• Catch the Utah Symphony at the Capitol for a free patriotic concert featuring American classics, Broadway favorites, and film music.
• Attend the Freedom Festival Grand Parade, one of the largest Independence Day parades in the West.
• Take a ride on the Heber Valley Railroad, complete with music and scenic views.
• Ride Salt Lake's low-stress bike routes before it gets hot.
• Cool off with a swim at a local pool or splashpad.
• Treat yourself to an ice cream crawl or a patio meal with your four-legged pal.
• Spend the day at Utah’s Hogle Zoo. They’re offering free admission for military families on July 4.
• Gather neighbors or friends for a backyard meal in the spirit of America's Potluck, a nationwide initiative encouraging people to connect over food on July 5.

Before You Go

• See illegal fireworks? Personal fireworks are banned throughout Salt Lake County this year. If you spot someone setting them off you call the non-emergency line. If there's an immediate fire or emergency, call 911.
• Utah is entering the holiday weekend under extremely dry conditions, and is already fighting multiple wildfires — including one that killed three firefighters near the Utah-Colorado border. [KUTV]
• Planning to head downtown? Expect heavy traffic throughout the weekend. If you can, take TRAX or arrive early.
• America 250: This Fourth marks America's 250th birthday, which is why you may notice even more celebrations than usual.