At This California Mountain You Can Ski on the 4th of July Before Watching the Highest Fireworks Display in the U.S.

Most Americans will spend the 4th of July weekend with friends and family, maybe watching a parade or oohing and aahing over fireworks, hot dog in hand. Those looking to take the celebration up a notch should look to California's Mammoth Mountain.

For the second time ever, the popular destination has gotten approval to launch fireworks off the mountain’s 11,053-foot summit during its Freedom Bash on July 6. The spectacular display is the highest firework show in the U.S. and falls on a Saturday, naturally extending 2019’s 4th of July celebrations.

The display was approved this year thanks to this winter’s unusually heavy snowfall, which has also enabled the ski area to remain open through August. It's one of the few areas to offer skiing over the 4th of July and following weekend. Ski fanatics can combine their love for the slopes with a weekend filled with patriotic, summer celebrations.

Mammoth Mountain’s Freedom Bash kicks off at 6:30 p.m. with a ride to the summit on the Panorama Gondola. At the top, the celebration commences with live music, lawn games, and BBQ. Tickets for the gondola and the party at the top of the mountain are $44 a person, although those with an Ikon ski pass can join in on the fun for $29. Kids 12 and under are free.

Those who don’t want to pay for the gondola and access to the mountain-top party, can explore town before enjoying a free viewing of the firework show from the Adventure Center at the base of the mountain.