Top Fourth of July Parades and Festivals in Knoxville

There’s no place quite like East Tennessee when it comes to celebrating the Fourth of July! Whether you’re looking for a small-town parade, a lakeside fireworks show, or an upscale experience in the heart of downtown Knoxville, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a roundup of some of the best Independence Day parades and events happening across our region in 2025:

🎆 James White’s Fort Fourth of July Celebration

📍 James White’s Fort
🕙 Thursday, July 4 | 10 AM – 12 PM
💲 Free

Step back in time and honor the birth of our nation with a historical ceremony hosted by the Knoxville Chapters of the Sons, Daughters, and Children of the American Revolution. It’s a meaningful way to start your July 4th with tradition and pride.

🎉 Town of Farragut Independence Day Parade

📍 Kingston Pike (from Stadium Drive to Boring Road)
🕘 Thursday, July 4 | 9:30 AM – 12 PM
💲 Free

We’re so excited to be participating in this again for the fourth year in a row—look out for the Karli Pritchard Realtors float! This classic hometown parade is full of charm with floats, dancers, bands, antique cars, and patriotic fun. It’s one of the most beloved traditions in West Knoxville.

👟 Farragut Freedom Run

📍 S. Campbell Station Rd (in front of First Citizens Bank)
🕘 Thursday, July 4 | 9:00 AM
💲 Registration required

Kick off the day with a 1- or 2-mile race just ahead of the parade! It’s family-friendly, USATF-certified, and a great way to start your holiday with some fresh air and energy.

🌟 Sunsphere Events: VIP 4th of July Fireworks Viewing

📍 Sunsphere (6th & 8th Floors)
🕗 Thursday, July 4 | 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
💲 Tickets: $75

Want to elevate your Fourth of July? Watch Knoxville’s fireworks from the city’s most iconic spot. Enjoy VIP treatment with a buffet, drinks, dessert station, DJ, and private access to the Sunsphere. Limited tickets available—and they go fast!

🎸 Rockin’ the Docks – Lenoir City

📍 Lenoir City Park
🕐 Saturday, June 29 | 1:00 PM – 10:30 PM
💲 Free

This waterfront festival is a summer favorite! Live music, vendors, food, a kid zone, and an incredible firework show over the water at 10:00 PM. Whether you come by land or boat, this one’s a party.

🎆 Townsend Fireworks Celebration

📍 Next to Highland Manor Inn
🕕 Thursday, July 4 | Starts at 6:00 PM
💲 Free

A laid-back, family-friendly event in the peaceful town of Townsend. Enjoy hot dogs, snow cones, face painting, and live music before the fireworks begin at dusk. Bring your lawn chairs and soak up the small-town charm.

🎇 Loudon Fireworks Show

📍 Loudon Municipal Park
🕔 Wednesday, July 3 | Gates open at 5:00 PM, Fireworks at 10:00 PM
💲 Free

Grab a spot early for great tailgating, food trucks, and one of the area’s best firework displays. Gates close to car traffic at 8:00 PM, so plan ahead.

🎶 Oak Ridge Community Band Independence Day Concert & Fireworks

📍 AK Bissell Park
🕢 Thursday, July 4 | Concert at 7:30 PM, Fireworks after
💲 Free (Donations accepted)

Celebrate with patriotic tunes from the Oak Ridge Community Band, followed by a colorful fireworks display courtesy of the fire department. Don’t forget to grab a scoop from Razzelberry’s Ice Cream truck!

🎺 Gatlinburg’s Midnight Parade

📍 Downtown Gatlinburg
🕛 Parade starts at 12:01 AM on Thursday, July 4
💲 Free

A one-of-a-kind tradition! Get to Gatlinburg the night of July 3 to grab a good spot for the nation’s first Fourth of July parade of the day. It’s a festive, mile-long march with patriotic flair and mountain-town charm.

🎈 More Local Parades to Catch:

• Loudon Independence Day Parade – Thursday, July 4 | 10:00 AM

• Lenoir City Parade – Thursday, July 4 | After the Firecracker Kids Run at 10:00 AM

• Powell Lions Club Parade – Thursday, July 4 | 11:00 AM

• Rutledge 4th of July Parade – Thursday, July 4 | 11:00 AM

Wherever you decide to celebrate, East Tennessee offers plenty of ways to make memories on the Fourth of July. If you need tips on neighborhoods with the best front porch views for fireworks—or you're thinking about calling one of these communities home—I’d love to help!

Happy Independence Day! 🇺🇸
— Karli Pritchard