Although our traditional events and activities to celebrate our nation’s independence on the Fourth of July may not be happening this year, you can still celebrate virtually. Thanks to live streaming and social media, you can still experience the fanfare of this jubilant day. If you are looking to take your Independence Day up a notch, check out some of the virtual celebration opportunities listed below.

Virtual Running Events

The Fourth of July is traditionally the perfect holiday for running events, including popular 5K and marathon distance races. Since these activities aren’t currently permitted, take part in a virtual race over Fourth of July weekend instead, running July 3-5. The RunnerMania Virtual Running Challenge presents the perfect opportunity to push yourself and burn some calories before firing up the barbeque. Participants may sign up for virtual 5K and half marathon race options in addition to a 24-hour Ultra running challenge, which pits runners against one another to see who can log the greatest distance in a 24-hour time period. Participants in the 5K and half marathon events will receive a participation medal, race shirt, and race bib, while 24-hour Ultra runners will receive a RunnerMania buckle, race shirt, and race bib. More details may be found on the Virtual Run Challenge website.

Get Creative

Pick up your paint brush and show your patriotic pride by participating in a virtual paint party or art class. From fireworks to flags and everything in between, there are a ton of cool painting parties you can take part in to celebrate the U.S.A. Check out that day’s planned virtual parties by visiting the Yaymaker website.

Tune In and Let Freedom Ring

The City of Palm Desert is hosting a “Patriotic Listening Party” on the Fourth of July at 9pm. The city encourages residents to go outside, while observing safe social distancing, and tune their radios or other listening devices to 98.5 The Bull or U-92.7 to enjoy patriotic tunes. The goal is to “let freedom ring” across the desert and enjoy a famed Coachella Valley summer evening outdoors. You can also take your virtual party online and post pictures of your experience to social media, using the hashtag #UnitePalmDesert. The City of Palm Desert is also working with local restaurants to set up “Independence Day picnic baskets” that will be available for purchase. More information on this creative celebration may be found on the City of Palm Desert website.

Enjoy Fireworks – From Afar

Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa in Rancho Mirage is the only place to catch fireworks live and in action! The casino is hosting a “Drive-In” themed parking lot viewing party featuring a live DJ and more. To observe social distancing and to keep guests safe, every other parking space will be empty, limiting the capacity to 650 cars. If you are unable to make it in person, you can still watch the stunning display by tuning in to NBC Palm Springs. The fireworks are set to shoot off starting at 9pm on July 4th. For more information on the Agua Caliente Fireworks Spectacular, check out their website.

Looking for a coastal Independence Day celebration? Tune in to one of the best and brightest Fourth of July fireworks shows around by live streaming the Big Bay Boom TV Special on Saturday, July 4^th starting at 8:30pm. Although the fireworks won’t be happening live this year, the TV special covers the best booms from previous years, including unreleased drone footage that puts you in the thick of the action from last year’s show. The Big Bay Boom is San Diego’s largest fireworks display, lighting up the North Bay and creating a scene visible up and down the San Diego coastline. If you live outside of San Diego, never fear – you can stream the hour-long special on the Fox 5 San Diego website.

If you want to watch fireworks from an inland locale, the City of Fontana is creating a special online event this year, filled with fantastic fanfare. The City has taken memorable snippets from past years’ fireworks shows to create an epic Fourth of July virtual celebration. The best part is you don’t need to live nearby to enjoy it! Check out the fireworks on YouTube, the City’s website, or via Facebook.

However you choose to celebrate our nation’s independence this Fourth of July, we hope that you have a fun, safe, and memorable day.