Celebrating the 4th of July in North Georgia

If you’re familiar with Atlanta, Georgia, then it may seem impossible that there are rolling hills and lush forests just a few miles north of the big city. But it’s true.

North Georgia is a special place to visit, with some of the best views and people in the country. And if you’re in the area during the first week of July, you need to check out local Independence Day celebrations. There’s nothing quite like a firework display over the North Georgia mountains.

No matter where you’re at when north of Atlanta, there’s a North Georgia 4th of July event that’s perfect for you and your family.
 

Lake Ruben Fireworks

Photo Credit: theclaytontribune.com

Lake Ruben is a large reservoir located in Tallulah Gorge State Park in northeast Georgia. The fireworks over the lake are really spectacular and one of the best events in the state.

This event is usually a three-day celebration starting on July 3 and ending on July 5, complete with a boat parade and fireworks over the lake. It’s great for the entire family!
 

Gainesville Independence Day Fireworks

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Gainesville, Georgia, is known as the Poultry Capital of the World and is roughly equal distance from Atlanta and Athens, Georgia (home of the University of Georgia). But don’t let the poultry and bulldogs keep you from visiting this quaint small town for your Independence Day celebrations.

Head to Laurel Park on Saturday, July 3, for food trucks, car show, kid-friendly activities, and one heckuva fireworks show. Cost is $10 per car.
 

Helen 4th of July Events

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Nestled in the north Georgia mountains is Helen, Georgia - the third most-visited city in the state (even though it only has a population of fewer than 500 people). It’s on the border of the Chattahoochee National Forest and is an exceptional small town to visit the Blue Ridge Mountains.

For a memorable fireworks display over the mountains, head to Helen on July 4th. The town will set fireworks off behind the Alpine Village Shoppes and Helen Welcome Center between 9 and 9:30pm.
 

Ellijay July 4th Fireworks

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Sixty-six miles north of Atlanta is Ellijay, a small city known as the “Apple Capital of Georgia.” Head to the downtown area for a memorable and spectacular fireworks display like no other. There is usually a parade, but it’s canceled this year.

Ellijay is a great city to spend the entire 4th of July day celebrating independence and freedom.
 

July 4th in Dahlonega

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Dahlonega Independence Day celebrations are popular for north Georgia residents. This small town is located off US-19 in the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Bring your family for a patriotic parade, car show, live music, and great food. And, of course, fireworks.
 

Buford 4th of July Fireworks

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Northeast of Atlanta is the town of Buford, just off Interstate-985. If you want to visit Lanier Islands, this is the town to start. July 4th events in Buford, Georgia, are great for all families.

Wear your red, white, and blue and light the sparklers for a weekend of fun and fireworks over the lake.
 

Blairsville July 4th

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Blairsville is a small town in the rolling hills of North Georgia and is a great place to plan your July 4th celebrations. Head to Vogel State Park for an all-day celebration with lots of food, activities, and live music.
 

July 4th in Braselton, Georgia

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To the east of Atlanta is Braselton, located to the south of Gainesville off I-85. This town provides quintessential smalltown Independence Day events like parades, live music, amazing food, and fireworks.
 

Hiawassee 4th of July Events

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Hiawassee is near the Georgia/North Carolina border near Chatuge Lake. It’s a great place to visit for the 4th of July and head to the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds for an impressive fireworks show. Admission and parking are free at the fairgrounds, and you can enjoy great music and food before the fireworks start.
 

Cumming Fairgrounds July 4th Event

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Another charming Independence Day event is located at the Cumming Fairgrounds in Cumming, Georgia. This small town is just a few miles north of Atlanta, and you can enjoy a unique steam engine parade, local high school marching bands, and delicious fair food. 4th of July fireworks in this North Georgia town start around 9:30pm.
 

Stone Mountain

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If you are staying in Atlanta for the 4th of July, consider heading east to Stone Mountain for amazing fireworks over the historical site. Go early in the day and enjoy hiking, eating, and all the attractions at Stone Mountain.