Secret Fireworks Watching Spots and Other Offbeat Ways to Spend 4th of July in North Texas

North Texas families who love baseball, sports, and the nostalgic feel of “The Sandlot” will find plenty of unique ways to celebrate the 4th of July. While fireworks are a staple, there are plenty of offbeat activities to enjoy. Here are some secret spots and fun events that will make your Independence Day memorable.

Fireworks Watch Parties

Shakespeare Dallas at Samuell-Grand Amphitheatre

• Where: Samuell-Grand Amphitheatre, 1500 Tenison Pkwy, Dallas
• When: July 4 at 7:45 p.m.
• Cost: $15-$20

One of the best-kept secrets for watching Fair Park Fourth fireworks is during the intermission of Shakespeare in the Park. Enjoy a modern retelling of “The Odyssey” and a front-row view of the fireworks without the hassle of traffic.

Addison Kaboom Town! Watch Parties Addison’s Kaboom Town is a massive event, but you can enjoy it from various vantage points across the town. Here are a few recommendations:

• Bitter Sisters: 15103 Surveyor Road, Addison. $80 for a parking spot and catering.
• The Back 9 Bar & Grill: 4060 Beltline Road, Addison. Outdoor watch party with a special menu.
• Cantina Laredo: 4546 Belt Line Road, Addison. Known for their USA ‘Ritas.
• Ida Claire: 5001 Belt Line Road, Addison. Enjoy outdoor games, live music, and a BBQ menu from 4 p.m.
• Lion & Crown: 5001 Addison Circle, Addison. Watch the fireworks from two patios with live entertainment from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Fireworks in the Park

• Where: Gunter City Park
• When: July 4 from 6-10 p.m.
• Cost: Free

Celebrate Independence Day in Gunter with a fun, exciting celebration at Fireworks in the Park. Join your family, friends, and neighbors for an evening of festivities. Presented by the Gunter Chamber of Commerce, with fireworks sponsored by Simmons Bank and Ameritex Pipe and Products, LLC.

Fourth of July Contests

Hot Dog Eating Contest at Denton’s July Jubilee

• Where: Downtown Square, 700 Oakland St., Denton
• When: July 3 from 6 to 11 p.m.
• Cost: Free

No Fourth of July is complete without a hot dog eating contest. Enjoy live music and two drone shows after the contest.

Dachshund Dash at the Frisco Freedom Fest

• Where: Simpson Plaza, 6101 Frisco Square Blvd., Frisco
• When: July 3 at 7 p.m.
• Cost: $10, register in advance

Watch or enter your favorite Wiener dog in the Dachshund Dash. Organized into heats, the winners compete in the finals for prizes.

Apple Pie Eating Contest at Garland’s Red, White & You Celebration

• Where: Downtown Square, 520 W. State St., Garland
• When: July 3 from 5 to 10 p.m.
• Cost: Free

Compete in or watch the apple pie-eating contest starting at 5:40 p.m. Enjoy live music, pony rides, food trucks, and a light and drone show.

Pie Eating Contest at Irving’s Sparks & Stripes Celebration

• Where: Heritage Park, 217 S. Main St., Irving
• When: July 4, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Cost: Free

After the Independence Day Parade, enjoy live music, carnival games, and a pie-eating contest at Heritage Park.

These unique events and secret spots provide a variety of ways to celebrate the 4th of July in North Texas. Whether you’re into watching fireworks from lesser-known spots, participating in fun contests, or enjoying indoor concerts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So gather your family and friends, and make this Independence Day a memorable one!