When and where to see July 4 fireworks from Hilton Head to Savannah
Fourth of July fireworks displays, canceled last year across the Lowcountry because of the COVID-19 pandemic, are making a comeback in 2021.
Some of them are, that is.
Several traditional fireworks displays are not happening, including ones over Harbour Town and Skull Creek on Hilton Head. A statement this week from Parris Island confirmed that the Marine Corps training depot would not be putting on a display this year.
That means crowds for the events that are happening may be large. Plan to arrive early, and expect heavy traffic before and after the fireworks.
Here are the upcoming public fireworks displays known to be happening in Beaufort and Jasper counties and within a short drive:
Hilton Head
Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina’s HarbourFest fireworks will light up the skies over Broad Creek starting after dark on July 4. It’s free and open to the public. No coolers. A free shuttle will run from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. from two alternative parking lots — at Chaplin Park for those coming from the north end of the island (turn on Singleton Beach Road) and at the Hargray building (862-A and 870-C William Hilton Parkway) for those coming from the south end. Anyone crossing U.S. 278 on foot or on a bike must use the pedestrian underpass near the entrance to Palmetto Dunes. Find more info about parking at https://bit.ly/fireworksparkingmap.
Shannon Tanner will perform at 6:30 and 8 p.m. Cappy the Clown will offer face painting, balloon animals and other activities from 6 to 9 p.m.
Port Royal
Port Royal’s fireworks display is scheduled to start around 8:30 p.m. July 4 from a barge in the area off The Sands beach. The road to the landing will be shut down at midnight prior to the holiday for all traffic, including trailered boats, and 7th Street will be closed to traffic except for residents on that street. Parking on Paris Avenue and side streets will be free, and police officers will be directing those with handicap tags to closer parking. Food and beverages will be available beginning at noon.
Battery Creek Jam featuring Drivin N Cryin, a privately organized concert event that had been scheduled for July 4 at the port property, was canceled. However, musical entertainment is still planned at the Port Royal Community Beer Garden.
Savannah
Savannah’s Waterfront fireworks show will begin at 9:15 p.m. July 4. The city will offer $5 flat rate parking in city garages and at the Savannah Convention Center. Organizers noted in a news release that convention center parking is limited because of construction, and the building will not be open. Spectators may bring chairs and blankets, but coolers are discouraged.
Family-friendly festivities are free and open to the public July 2 through July 5 at Plant Riverside District, 400 W. River St. On the schedule are performances by Savannah Cirque, with mini golf and food and drink options. The Freedom Floats Savannah July 4th Boat Parade, presented by the Freedom Boat Club, is 3 to 5 p.m. July 4.
This story was originally published June 24, 2021 at 9:29 AM.
