SAVANNAH, Ga. () – It’s one of Savannah Waterfront’s biggest nights of the year with a Fourth of July celebration that’s as festive as it is patriotic. Tens of thousands of people are expected to pack River Street for live music, great food, and of course, a spectacular fireworks show.

The fireworks are choreographed to a patriotic soundtrack. New this year: viewing the fireworks on both sides of the river with the re-opening of the Convention Center. Ahead of the show, people will enjoy live performances at multiple locations including the Third Infantry Division band on Riverfront Plaza at 7:30 p.m.

Waterfront restaurants will offer food and drink specials but remember that alcoholic beverages must be bought from licensed vendors and carried in plastic cups. River Street closes to traffic at 6 p.m. and will reopen after the fireworks. Chairs and blankets are allowed but no glass bottles, personal fireworks or bikes.

Julie Musselman, the executive director of Savannah’s Waterfront, says this year there is something for everyone. “We’re getting ready for our Independence Day celebration, which is our largest event of the year. And we’re so excited to be celebrating our country’s birthday. It’s going to be a great time for folks to come down with their friends and family.”

The fireworks show will begin around 9:30 p.m. Pyrotechnique technicians will launch them from a barge in the Savannah River.

With any large celebration, city officials warn of parking limitations and road closures. River Street will be closed to vehicles after 6 p.m. and cars parked nearby must remain until streets reopen post-show.

With summer heat and possible storms expected, guests should come prepared, stay hydrated and celebrate safely.