New Orleans' signature Independence Day celebration, Go 4th on the River, is the official centerpiece of the city's America 250 festivities — and it's completely free. At 9:00 p.m. on July 4th, dueling barges anchored on the Mississippi launch the biggest fireworks show the city has ever staged, choreographed to patriotic music and lighting up both banks of the river.

The Mississippi River will play host to an impressive flotilla of ships from all across the globe. You can find the vessels gracing the riverfront from the Bywater up to the Crescent Connection twin bridges. The beauty of New Orleans is that nearly all of the waterfront is accessible by foot and just a short distance from most major hotels, attractions, restaurants, and more–making it easier than ever to experience everything New Orleans has to offer during this historic, milestone event.