Hello neighbors! With summer in full swing and the scent of grilled burgers starting to fill the air, it’s time to talk about the most spirited week of the year — the 4th of July! Whether you’re into fireworks, parades, live music, or just good ol’ community vibes, Mercer County is lighting up (literally and figuratively) with things to do.
So grab your picnic blanket, fire up the group chat, and let’s dive into what’s happening right here in our corner of Pennsylvania — plus where to grab a bite before the fireworks begin!
Where to Catch the Best Fireworks & Festivities
🇺🇸 Grove City Fireworks & Block Party
📍 Grove City High School / East Main Presbyterian Church
🕗 July 4, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Start your evening with the toe-tapping sounds of the Harrisville Community Band, then stick around for a hometown fireworks show that never disappoints. Don’t miss the block party behind East Main Presbyterian — food, friends, and that festive spirit we all love.
👉 Pro tip: Show up early to snag a good parking spot and grab a cone from Main Street Diner on your way in.
🎉 Greenville Freedom Festival
📍 Downtown Greenville
🕛 July 1, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Greenville’s doing it big again this year — military tributes, live music, a car cruise, and of course, a booming fireworks finale! Great for families, history buffs, and anyone who likes their celebrations with a little chrome and horsepower.
🎇 Shenango Riverfront Fireworks in Sharon
📍 Downtown Sharon (Quaker Steak & Lube parking lot)
🕓 July 1, 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Bring a lawn chair and your appetite — food trucks and live music keep things lively all evening. Fireworks light up the riverfront at 9:30 PM. This one has a city-feel in a small-town setting.
🔥 Thunder in the Sky – Sharpsville
📍 East end of High Street, Sharpsville
🕙 July 2, 10:00 PM
Thunder in the Sky brings fireworks with a BANG (literally). Make a night of it and bring the kids — this one’s got that nostalgic summer vibe. The view from High Street is unbeatable.
🎶 Westminster College Independence Celebration
📍 Brittain Lake, Westminster Campus
🕢 July 3, 7:30 PM
Think summer concert meets lakeside relaxation. It’s family-friendly, easy to park, and ends with a fireworks show that reflects beautifully off the water.
🚜 Patriot Pull – Truck & Tractor Pull
📍 3366 Hadley Rd, Clarks Mills
🗓️ July 5–6
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July 5: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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July 6: 5:00 PM start
Love horsepower? You’ll love the Patriot Pull. Loud engines, competitive pulling, and some of the best concession food this side of the county. This one brings the country charm full throttle.
Where to Eat (Before or After the Fireworks!)
Let’s be real: you can’t celebrate on an empty stomach. Here are local favorites plus some hidden gems to fuel your festivities.
Must-Try Dining Spots Around the County
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Talbot’s Taproom & Terrace (Mercer)
You’ve heard the buzz — now’s the time to try it! Eclectic menu, craft drinks, and a fantastic patio. Treat yourself. You deserve it. -
Iron Bridge Inn (Hermitage)
A Mercer County classic. Great steaks, cozy interior, and a menu that’s crowd-pleasing without being boring. -
TimberCreek Tap & Table (Grove City)
House-brewed beer and scratch-made meals. Sit on the patio if the weather cooperates. -
Thelma’s Sports Nook (Sharpsville)
The wings are legendary, and it’s a great spot to chill before Sharpsville’s fireworks. -
Compadres Mexican Restaurant (Greenville)
Family-friendly with generous portions and margaritas worth celebrating. -
Donna’s Diner (Sharon)
Step back into the ‘50s with milkshakes, burgers, and real-deal nostalgia. -
Beans on Broad (Grove City)
Perfect for a morning coffee or light lunch before the evening crowds.
For the Staycationers
You don’t have to leave Mercer County to make a vacation out of the holiday weekend. Book a night at:
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Tara – A Country Inn (romantic and historic)
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Buhl Mansion (luxury spa vibes)
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Holiday Inn Express Grove City (great for families and out-of-town guests)
Final Sparkle
Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just moved here last year, the 4th of July is a chance to celebrate what makes Mercer County special — community spirit, family traditions, and a whole lot of fireworks.
So this year, let’s make it more than just another long weekend. Let’s gather, eat, laugh, and light up the sky — together.
See you out there, neighbors! And hey — save me a seat near the funnel cakes.
