JULY FOURTH FIREWORKS IN PITTSBURGH AT THE POINT. | PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

Downtown Pittsburgh will switch its black and gold for red, white and blue to celebrate Independence Day on July 4. 

The City of Pittsburgh’s annual Independence Day Celebration begins at 1 p.m. Thursday, July 4. The day includes free family activities, musical entertainment, food and the city’s iconic fireworks display. 

Festivities will be spread across Point State Park, Liberty Avenue and the North Shore. The holiday kicks off at 1 p.m. at the Fort Pitt Museum’s “Fourth at the Fort” flag-raising. 

The museum will open its doors for an afternoon of living history demonstrations until 4 p.m. Attractions include a replica of George Washington’s Revolutionary War tent, the museum’s replica British six-pounder cannon and 18th-century military music. 

Once you’ve had your share of history, stop by the entrance to Point State Park off of Commonwealth Place to enjoy live music at Citipark’s Main Stage until 9:25 p.m. Performing artists include NASH.V.ILL, Squonk, Franchise Band and the 90s Summer Jam Extravaganza presented by Mr. Smalls. 

From 6-8 p.m., you can try line dancing by the water at the Point State Park Fountain. 

The park will also be host to the Trulieve Veteran Wellness Corner, Clearview Family Fun Zone and a sensory tent, all open until 8 p.m. 

If you’re hungry, head toward Liberty Avenue to grab some food at the People’s Food Truck Corral and hear more live music at Sargent Electric Stage until 8 p.m. Or, grab a drink at the alcohol tent. 

Across the river on the North Shore, a Fireside DJ will entertain on the PNC Great Lawn next to the RE/MAX hot air balloon and additional concession stands. 

Before you head home for the night, find a comfortable spot on the grass in either Point State Park or the Great Lawn to witness the day’s main attraction: the Independence Day Fireworks. The 25-minute display will begin at 9:35 p.m. 

The city will be conducting light security screening at all park entrances.