Two cities, three fireworks displays. Pick a riverbank, or be ambitious and chain them.
The big one. Free programming all day: a 5K at 8 AM, food trucks from 11 AM, live music at Mill Ruins Park from 8 to 10 PM, then fireworks over the river at 10. Expect 50,000 people and bring a blanket; seating is limited and the riverfront lawn is the move.
St. Paul's first major Fourth fireworks in nearly a decade, hosted by the Rotary Club under the Cathedral. Food trucks open at 6 PM, a concert follows, and the fireworks go at dusk.
The Saints host the Buffalo Bisons in Lowertown with a post-game fireworks show. The baseball version of the holiday: cheap seats, a full stadium, and the show goes up right over the ballpark.
St. Anthony Main patio across the river from the Minneapolis show. Book early or go for the standing crowd on the cobblestones.
The Cathedral Hill patio institution, two blocks from St. Paul's fireworks. Dinner first, walk to the show.
Lowertown bar and patio a short walk from CHS Field for before or after the Saints game.