Independence Day is just around the corner, and watching fireworks on the lake is one of our favorite July 4th traditions! Here’s a look at what’s going on in our area.

Tri-Cities

South Holston Lake – Lake View Dock

Fireworks start 30 minutes after dark on Friday, July 1st.

The best way to see the fireworks is by boat! Watching from outside the wave break on the water is simply magical.

Just remember for safety to stay at least 50 yards from the barge where the fireworks are being set off. And drive slowly! There will be a lot of boats on the lake.

Watauga Lake

Three different marinas have fireworks and celebrations on Watauga Lake, all on different nights. A lot of people watch all three out on the water from their boats!

Watauga Lake also has another July 4th tradition: an annual boat parade.

Lakeshore Resort & Marina

Lakeshore is having their celebration on July 3rd. There will be a live band on the dock from 6-8:30 with fireworks following.

Cove Ridge Marina

While there won’t be fireworks this year at Cove Ridge, celebrations will include The Preston Benfield band at the marina Saturday, July 2nd at 6 pm.

Watauga Lake Boat Parade

Mallard Cove is sponsoring the Watauga Lake Boat Parade this year! It will be held on Monday, July 4th from 12:30-2:30PM. The parade starts at the dam with judging at 12:30 with the houseboats, then pontoons, then runabouts and finally sailboats. All you have to do to participate is show up!

Boat owners decorate with patriotic themes and compete for prizes: still accepting sponsors so keep a look out for great prizes.

If the weather’s nice, there may be thousands of people sitting on the shoreline to watch, all the way from Rat Branch to Butler Bridge, where the parade ends.

Boaters who don’t want to participate in the parade can float nearby to watch.

Boone Lake

America’s Bash!