Michigan residents are gearing up for Independence Day celebrations, but officials are urging caution as hot temperatures and dry conditions raise the risk of fires and injuries across parts of the state.
Upcoming Fireworks Events Across Michigan
- Hastings City Band: A Tribute to America – July 2, Hastings
- Salute To America – July 2-5, Dearborn
- Marquette 4th of July – July 3, Marquette
- Cascades Fireworks – July 3, Jackson
- Wolverine Lake Fireworks – July 3, Wolverine Lake
- Harbor Springs Parade – July 3
- Mason Independence Day Parade – July 3
- Allegan Jubilee – July 3, Allegan
- Eaton Rapids Celebration – July 3-4
- Portland 4th of July Parade – July 4
- National Cherry Festival – July 4, Traverse City
- Munising 4th of July – July 4
- Corunna Celebration – July 4
- Lansing Lugnuts Independence Day Celebration – July 4
- Lexington Fireworks – July 4
- Rackham Golf Course Fireworks – July 4, Huntington Woods
- Clawson Fireworks – July 4
- Light Up the Bay – July 4, Tawas City
- Saugatuck-Douglas Fireworks – July 5
- Grand Rapids Fireworks – July 5
- Owosso Fireworks Viewing Party – July 5
- Annual Rainbow Lakes Fireworks – July 5, Perrinton
- Lake Orion Fireworks – July 5
- Maceday Lake Fireworks – July 5, Waterford
- Port Sanilac Independence Day Fireworks – July 5
- Oakland County Fair Fireworks – July 11, Davisburg
- Uncle Sam Jam – July 11, Woodhaven
Fireworks Laws and Restrictions
- Fireworks can legally be set off between 11 a.m. and 11:45 p.m. through July 5.
- Local governments cannot restrict usage during this period but can allow additional days or hours.
- Fireworks must be used only on private property.
- It is illegal to set off fireworks on public spaces like streets, sidewalks, schools or churches.
- Violations may result in fines of up to $500.
- Store-bought, consumer-grade fireworks such as sparklers and smoke bombs are permitted on private property.
- Selling fireworks to anyone under 18 is prohibited.
Fireworks Safety Tips
- Do not light fireworks near buildings, cars or trees.
- Soak used fireworks in water overnight before disposing of them.
- Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby.
- Aerial fireworks are prohibited in state parks and recreational areas.
- Only use fireworks during the permitted time frame.
Injury and Fire Risks
- In 2023, nearly 15,000 fireworks-related injuries were reported nationwide, with burns and blast injuries being the most common.
- Eleven fatalities occurred due to fireworks misuse or malfunction.
- Fireworks caused over 32,000 fires, including nearly 4,000 structure fires, resulting in $142 million in property damage.
Weather Outlook
- Southeast and western Michigan will see temperatures in the mid-80s on July 4, climbing to the low 90s by Saturday.
- Northern Michigan will reach highs near 85 on Friday before a slight cooldown.
- The Upper Peninsula will see highs near 80, with the possibility of afternoon storms throughout the weekend.
- Water temperatures in the Great Lakes are rising, offering some relief for swimmers.
- Lake Erie temperatures have reached the mid-70s, while Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, and Lake Ontario remain in the high 60s to low 70s.
- Lake Superior remains cold, with temperatures in the low 50s.
Dry Conditions and Burn Bans
- Some counties have implemented burn restrictions to prevent wildfires.
- Open debris burning is banned in Antrim and Oscoda counties.
- Burn permit restrictions are active in Houghton, Marquette, Leelanau, Charlevoix, Clare, Grand Traverse, Muskegon, Roscommon, and Bay counties.
- While most of the state is not experiencing a drought, central Michigan and parts of the western Upper Peninsula are abnormally dry.
Travel Tips for the Holiday Weekend
- Michigan gas prices have dropped to an average of $3.26 per gallon, down from a recent peak of $3.32.
- Drivers can expect to pay around $48 to fill a 15-gallon tank, $9 less than this time last year.
- AAA anticipates nearly 61.6 million Americans will travel, with over 700,000 requiring roadside assistance.
Officials urge residents to celebrate responsibly, follow safety guidelines, and stay informed about local restrictions as they enjoy this year’s Fourth of July festivities.
