Independence Day celebrations blanket Bonneville County and surrounding communities this weekend, with dozens of events scheduled across Idaho Falls, Ammon, Pocatello, Rexburg, and smaller towns marking America’s 250th anniversary. Families can choose from early-morning races, festive parades, live music, and fireworks displays throughout the region.
Idaho Falls Events Draw Large Crowds
The state’s largest July 4th gathering centers on Idaho Falls, where multiple festivities begin Saturday morning. The 21st annual Firecracker 5K race kicks off at 7 a.m. at the intersection of South Boulevard and East 25th Street, drawing runners seeking an early start to their holiday.
Liberty on Parade begins at 9 a.m., starting near Idaho Falls High School at South Holmes and 4th Street and concluding near Tautphaus Park at South Boulevard and Rogers Street. The procession traditionally features floats, marching groups, and local organizations celebrating the nation’s founding.
Riverfest celebration opens at 11 a.m. at Snake River Landing, offering food, entertainment, and family activities throughout the afternoon. The main event—Melaleuca Freedom Celebration fireworks—illuminates the night sky at 10 p.m., launching over 18,500 shells above the Snake River. Organizers note that RV parking will not be available at the Riverfest site this year.
Ammon and Pocatello Host Earlier Shows
Ammon residents can celebrate a day early. The city’s Independence Day fireworks display and festivities begin at 5 p.m. Friday, July 3, at McCowin Park, with fireworks launching at 10 p.m., presented by Westmark Credit Union.
Pocatello’s celebration unfolds across multiple venues Saturday. The Independence Day Parade begins at 9:30 a.m. on North Main Street downtown, followed by America’s 250th Anniversary Celebration at 1 p.m. at the Bannock County Events Center complex. The Idaho State Civic Symphony performs a free concert at 8 p.m. at Portneuf Health Trust Amphitheater. Fireworks begin approximately 9:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Rexburg and Smaller Communities Offer Diverse Activities
Rexburg schedules events on both days of the long weekend. Party at the Park runs Friday, July 3, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Porter Park. On Saturday, the Main Street Mile run begins at 8 a.m., with the first 100 finishers receiving complimentary T-shirts. All participants in the race earn a Fourth of July day pass to Rexburg Rapids. The Rexburg Fourth of July Parade starts at 10 a.m. Saturday, beginning at Madison Avenue and 1st North and ending at the 4th South and 2nd West roundabout. Fireworks split between Riverside Park and Teton Lakes Golf Course, launching at approximately 10 p.m.
American Falls hosts Music in the Park Independence Day Celebration from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Willow Bay Resort, with David Young and the Interstate Kings headlining live entertainment.
Ashton centers its celebration around small-town traditions. The Rotary Breakfast runs from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Saturday at the city park, followed by the Main Street Parade at 10 a.m.—this year themed “Symbols of Freedom,” a selection made by Mrs. Goebal’s Kindergarten class. The city park celebration continues until 2 p.m. following the parade. Rock the Block, featuring live music all day, has relocated to the lot behind Imperial Club.
Menan packs multiple activities into Saturday. The 3-on-3 basketball tournament begins at 7 a.m. at Menan City Park. A family breakfast serves from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. A 5K race registration opens at 7 a.m. at the Menan Fire Station, with the race starting at 8 a.m. A car show runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the parade is scheduled for 11 a.m., with fireworks at dark.
Malad starts its holiday celebration Friday, July 3, with a kids parade and “Malad’s Got Talent” competition. Saturday begins with a cannonade at sunrise, followed by a 6 a.m. fun run.
What Comes Next
Most celebrations conclude by late evening Saturday, July 4, allowing residents to return to regular routines Sunday. Communities across East Idaho continue to embrace Fourth of July traditions as a centerpiece of summer civic life in Bonneville County.