Independence Day falls on a Friday in 2025 meaning some folks might have a long weekend off work. Whether you find something local, or jump in the car for a visit to a place a bit further away, make plans to do something fun this holiday weekend.

Swipe through to get ideas about how you can spend your long 4th of July weekend.

Visit A Park Or Monument

If you live close to a national or state park or a historic monument, plan a visit. If you’re like most folks, you’ve probably “always meant” to visit that historically significant area, but never managed to get around to it. Now’s the time — commit to making it happen!

Host a Gathering

Invite family and friends over for a celebration. Plan for easy main dishes like hamburgers and hotdogs, and ask guests to bring the sides. Decorate with red, white and blue flags, streamers or whatever’s easy. And it doesn’t have to look like the Met Gala Just getting everyone together is what’s important.

Go Camping

If the weather is amenable, take the family camping. Pick a campground that’s not too far away, make a reservation and load up. Everyone will love getting out into nature and away from the everyday grind.

Attend a Parade

If getting out of town isn’t in the cards this year, check online to see if your community is hosting an Independence Day parade. Some towns even have kid-centered parades, complete with decorated bikes or wagons to tow the very young. Get dressed up in your favorite patriotic gear, and join in the celebration!

Visit a Water Park

Is there a water park within a couple hours’ drive of you? Book a cheap hotel near the park, pack the swimsuits, and head out. Plan on at least a couple days of non-stop fun as you and your family get soaked in every possible way.

Visit a Museum

If July is insanely hot where you live, you may prefer to engage in an indoor activity or two. That history museum you’ve been meaning to visit? This might be the perfect time. Or check out an art museum. These air-conditioned, and educational, places are great to visit over a long weekend.

See a Fireworks Show

Many communities put on a fireworks show, some with an accompanying concert. Sometimes area towns and neighborhoods host their shows on different nights, so you can plan to hit more than one show.