The Fourth of July is the perfect time to come together as a family, celebrate our nation’s independence and create cherished summer memories. Whether you’re planning to relax at home or venture out and explore, there are plenty of activities to enjoy this holiday. From dazzling firework displays to outdoor movie nights under the stars, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some fun and festive ways your family can celebrate Independence Day in the Mahoning Valley.
Watch a Local Fireworks Show
No Fourth of July is complete without fireworks and, lucky for us, the Mahoning Valley has plenty of them! Some local favorites include:
- July 4 – Firestone Park
Celebrate with a full‑day of fun, food and entertainment at Firestone Park. Festivities include a pet parade, ice cream eating contest, watermelon eating contest, cornhole tournament, live music and more. Events begin at 11 AM, so come early and stay all day! Fireworks begin around 10 PM. - July 4 – Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre
Celebrate in the heart of downtown Youngstown this Fourth of July! Bring a blanket and lawn chairs and enjoy the Walk of Fame induction ceremony (inducting 5 local boxing legends), live music, food trucks and more. This free event starts at 5 PM, with fireworks to follow at dusk. - July 4 – Scrappers Game at Eastwood Field
Enjoy America’s pastime with a fireworks finale! The Scrappers will host a pre-game picnic for their 7:05 PM game against the West Virginia Black Bears, followed by a post‑game fireworks display. - July 4 – Packard Music Hall
The W.D. Packard Concert Band will hold its annual July 4th Spectacular at the South Lawn Bandshell of Packard Music Hall in Warren. Concert begins at 8 PM, with fireworks immediately following the performance.
Host a Backyard BBQ
A classic backyard cookout is a great way to bring the family together this Fourth of July. Fire up the grill and serve holiday favorites like juicy burgers, hot dogs and corn on the cob. For a healthy and festive twist, try fruit kabobs or a red, white and blue pasta salad. Keep everyone entertained with outdoor games like cornhole, water balloon toss or a slip-and-slide for the kids. Add a splash of patriotic spirit with red, white and blue decorations, string lights or themed tableware. While enjoying the festivities, don’t forget to keep you and your family safe by wearing sunscreen, staying hydrated and taking breaks in the shade, adhering to food safety guidelines, practicing water safety if near a pool or body of water, and using grills and other outdoor equipment safely.
Explore Local Parks & Trails
Before the fireworks light up the night sky, take advantage of the warm weather by getting outside and enjoying the Mahoning Valley’s natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk, an active adventure or just a scenic picnic spot, the Valley has something for everyone.
- Mill Creek MetroParks: with over 4,500 acres of green space, Mill Creek Metroparks offers a variety of recreational activities, including walking and biking trails, paddle boat rentals at Lake Glacier, and access to lakes for fishing and boating. Pack a picnic and find a shady spot in Fellows Riverside Gardens for a relaxing midday break.
- Stavich Bike Trail: stretching from Struthers to New Castle, this paved trail runs alongside the Mahoning River and is great for a family bike ride or a brisk morning walk. Don’t forget your helmets and water bottles!
- Boardman Park: this centrally located park has paved walking paths, open green space and several playgrounds for little ones. It’s a great stop before heading to afternoon events or prepping for an evening BBQ.
- Lake Milton State Park: pack the family up early for a morning by the water or on the trail and return in the evening to watch fireworks light up the sky.
Attend a Parade
Parades are a cherished Fourth of July tradition – and the Mahoning Valley has several family-friendly options to enjoy. Dress in your best red, white and blue, grab a lawn chair and line the streets to wave your flags as floats, bands and community groups pass by. Some local favorites you won’t want to miss include:
- Austintown
The annual Fourth of July parade will start at 12 PM at the intersection of Kirk and Raccoon Roads, proceeding north on Raccoon Road to the Austintown Library. This year’s theme is “Freedom Shines in Every Wave & Smile.” The parade will showcase youth organizations, first responders and community pride. - Canfield
This parade lines up at the Canfield Fairgrounds at 10 AM, then proceeds along South Broad Street circling the Village Green. Grand Marshal introduction, live music, children’s games, a petting zoo and an antique car show will follow. - Struthers
The Struthes parade starts at noon from the Fifth Street Plaza. Bring your lawn chairs, grab some snacks and enjoy the parade with your neighbors and friends! - Niles
The parade begins at 11 AM in downtown Niles. Spectators are advised to line up on the sidewalks on Main Street, from Federal to State. A car show and craft fair will also take place at the Niles Senior Center, with food, music, vendors and fun activities for kids. - Newton Falls
Kicking off at 10 AM along West Broad Street, this long-running local favorite features community groups, classic cars, music and patriotic displays.
Stay Active
Start your holiday off on a healthy note by participating in a local fun run or charity walk. It’s a great way to get moving, support a good cause, and set a positive tone for the day.
- Community Walks in Mill Creek Park
While not tied to a single event, many families gather in the morning for informal walks or hikes through Mill Creek trails to kick off the holiday. It’s a scenic and peaceful way to get your steps in before the festivities begin. - Canfield 4th of July Firecracker 4-Mile Run
This annual run will be held before the Canfield 4th of July Parade. Registration at Canfield’s Township Hall begins at 7:30 AM, with the Kids race starting at 8:15 AM and the Adult race at 8:30 AM. - Struthers School Foundation 4th of July 5K
This 5K event starts at the corner of 5th Street and Rita Drive. Registration and packet pickup starts at 9 AM, with the race taking place at 11 AM.
Enjoy an Outdoor Movie Night
After a full day of Fourth of July festivities, relaxing with a movie under the stars is a fun and peaceful way to wind down. Many communities host outdoor screenings in parks or public spaces, often featuring patriotic or family-friendly films. If there’s a drive-in theater nearby, check for special holiday showings or themed nights. For a cozy option at home, set up a backyard movie with a projector, comfortable seating and classic snacks. Whether you’re enjoying a favorite film or simply spending time together, it’s a perfect way to end the holiday.
Whether you’re waving flags at a parade, watching fireworks light up the sky, or enjoying a movie under the stars, the Mahoning Valley offers plenty of meaningful ways to celebrate the Fourth of July. At Southwoods, we encourage you to stay active, stay safe and most of all, enjoy the day with the people who matter most. Happy Independence Day from all of us at Southwoods Health!
