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About Lake Murray’s Independence Day Celebration

Named a top 10 place “To celebrate the 4th of July like a local” – Southern Living 2025
Named a “Best July 4th Event Across the South” – StyleBlueprint 2025

Every year, Lake Murray lights up with a breathtaking fireworks show launched from Spence and Dreher Islands. This year, join us on Saturday, July 4, 2026 for Lake Murray’s Independence Day Celebration 2026! Thousands of spectators take to their boats to celebrate under the stars in true red, white, and blue style!

Pro tip: the best spot to watch the fireworks is right on Lake Murray by boat! If you don’t have your own boat, don’t worry, because there are designated fireworks viewing spots on land at Dreher Island State Park (3677 State Park Road, Prosperity, SC 29127)! All normal fees will apply at Dreher Island State Park for parking and entry: $3 (per adult), $1.50 (adults 65 years and older), and $1 (ages 6-15).

Lake Murray’s Independence Day Celebration is funded every year with the proceeds from Taste of Lake Murray, the sole fundraiser for the patriotic event. Taste of Lake Murray 2026, presented by Lexington Medical Center, was held on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Columbia.

More info coming soon!

Photo credit: Bennie Brawley

Want to get involved?

If you weren’t able to attend Taste of Lake Murray, don’t worry, you can still help us light up the sky! Donations can be made year-round on our website through our symbolic “Adopt a Firework” initiative, or in-person at the Lake Murray Country Visitors Center, located at 2184 North Lake Drive, Columbia, SC 29212. If you have any questions, feel free to call us at 803-781-5940 | 1-866-SC-JEWEL.