In 2016, we told you about some of New Mexico's most impressive fireworks displays here. As the 4th of July nears again, you're probably wondering: "where are the best fireworks near me this year?" Not to worry. We've compiled a list of options that'll make your Independence Day celebrations awesome, in every sense of the word.
1. Smokey Bear Stampede Fireworks (Capitan)
Want an unrivaled small town July 4th experience? Then head to Capitan for the Smokey Bear Stampede (from July 1st – 4th, 2017). Independence Day starts with a parade at 10:00 a.m. Fireworks begin immediately after the massive rodeo ends, at approximately 10:30 p.m. Buy rodeo tickets, which also give access to the fireworks show, at the gate then prepare to enjoy the biggest fireworks extravaganza in Lincoln County (address: 100 5th St, Capitan). For more info
2. Freedom 4th (Albuquerque)
Held in Balloon Fiesta Park, Freedom 4th is one of the biggest fireworks show in New Mexico. This year, Clint Black is headlining the musical performances. There's a microbrew beer garden. Free kids’ activities are also on offer. The fireworks display starts at 9:15 p.m. For more info.
For a less hectic experience, head over to the Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum for
Red White and Balloons, which runs from 5:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.. There aren’t any fireworks here but it’s a great spot from which to admire the show in Balloon Fiesta Park.
3. July 4th Fireworks Extravaganza (Alamogordo)
Once again, the New Mexico Museum of Space History will host the City of Alamogordo’s fireworks display. However, the launch location has shifted a little in 2017, to south of Highway 2001, allowing for larger fireworks to be set off. Although museum members and special guests are able to congregate in the museum parking lot, the new location means it’ll be easier to view the fireworks from the city. Tune in this 4th of July to KZZX 105.3 FM, to pair specially choreographed music with the show.
4. Kiwanis Club Fireworks Show (White Rock)
The Kiwanis Club sponsors the annual fireworks show in Overlook Park, a place that already offers breathtaking views. This year, the celebration starts at 2:00 p.m. with kid-friendly activities and live music. The actual fireworks display takes place at 9:15 p.m. There’s a $5 recommended donation.
5. Star Spangled Celebration (Mescalero)
this's is's it's can' you "tell me" Where'; My head"
Promoted as the largest and longest fireworks display in the Land of Enchantment, the show at Inn of the Mountain Gods is free. Festivities kick off at 3:00 p.m. with live music and a BBQ, and conclude at 11:00 p.m.
While we've focused on several spectacular displays, there are plenty more great fireworks shows going on throughout New Mexico. Here are some additional ones - see which ones are near you.
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- Rio Rancho, July 4th, Loma Colorado Park, fireworks at 9:00 p.m.
- Roswell, July 4th, Cielo Grande Recreation Area, fireworks around 9:15 p.m.
- Grants, July 4th, Coyote del Malpais Golf Course, around 9:30 p.m.
- Eagle Nest, July 4th, display over Eagle Nest Lake, at dark
- Clovis, Smoke on the Water Fireworks Display, July 4th, Greene Acres Park, fireworks at 9:00 p.m. (weather permitting)
- Fort Sumner, July 4th, Sumner Lake State Park, fireworks at 9:00 p.m.
- Las Cruces, July 4th, Field of Dreams, fireworks at night
- Artesia, July 4th, Jaycee Park, fireworks at 8:45 p.m.
- Silver City, July 4th, Gough Park, immediately after dark – around 9:00 p.m.
- Logan, Ute Lake State Park, July 1st, fireworks at dark
- Tucumcari, July 4th, Elks Lodge
- Portales, July 4th, Portales Softball Complex, fireworks at dusk, at approximately 9:00 p.m.
- Farmington, July 3rd, Farmington Museum & Visitor Center, fireworks at 9:25 p.m (set from Sullivan Hill)
- Conchas Lake State Park, July 1st, between 8:00 p.m. and 11:45 p.m.
- Las Vegas, July 4th, NMHU Golf Course, fireworks at dusk
- Rio Rancho, July 4th, Loma Colorado Park, fireworks at 9:00 p.m.
- Santa Fe, July 4th, Santa Fe High School, at dark – around 9:30 p.m.
- Elephant Butte, July 1st, Elephant Butte Lake State Park, fireworks 9:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
- Socorro, NM Tech Campus north of Macey Center, at dark
- Taos, July 4th, Kit Carson Park, fireworks at 9:00 p.m.
- Clayton, July 4th, Union County Fairgrounds, fireworks after the rodeo – the rodeo starts at 6:00 p.m.
- Los Lunas, July 4th, Daniel Fernandez Memorial Park, fireworks at dusk
Let the festivities begin! How will you celebrate July Fourth this year? Let us know on the Only In New Mexico Facebook page.
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