Every Fourth, and a few extra nights
Where to watch fireworks.
Between the last week of June and July 5 you can see a fireworks show most nights if you're willing to drive a little. Franklin's own goes up on the Fourth, and the towns around us spread theirs out so they don't all land on the same night.
Each show below has one page that stays put from year to year. When this year's date is announced it shows up on that page and on the calendar, so this is the page to keep for next summer.
On the calendar
All events →The every-year shows
Late June
North Georgia Fireworks Annual Demonstration
The fireworks store on US-441 south of Clayton puts on a free live demonstration before the Fourth. Lawn chairs, parking nearby, goes off at dark. About 30 minutes from Franklin.
The first days of July
Independence Day Celebration at Lake Junaluska
Several days of July 4th at the lake: a lantern ceremony, bluegrass at Stuart Auditorium, the boat Flotilla and fireworks over the water.
July 4
Franklin's Fourth of July
The town's own: a parade on Main Street in the morning, the afternoon at the Recreation Park, and fireworks with music at 10.
July 4
Backyard Fourth Fireworks, Maggie Valley
Maggie Valley's free show at the festival grounds. Gates open at 6, fireworks at dark, no alcohol on the grounds.
July 5
July 4th Plus 1, Canton
Canton waits a day and sets its show off over the Pigeon River at Sorrells Street Park. A DJ, the splash pad, and fireworks at dusk. Free.
Good to know
- Shows start at dark, which in early July in the mountains is close to 9:30. The listed start times are for the food and music before it.
- Bring chairs or a blanket. Most of these are free, and the good spots on the grass go early.
- Everyone leaves at once. Plan on a slow drive out after the finale, especially from the bigger shows in Maggie Valley and at Lake Junaluska.
Dates come from the organizers: Town of Franklin · Visit Haywood County · Lake Junaluska. More of the year on the annual events page.