It may be America's 230th birthday this year, but we agree that if anything, there seems to be slightly less going on this July 4th weekend than for last year's 229th anniversary, and what there is all seems to be strangely hush-hush. We've been inundated with inquiries like yours requesting information, but until very recently everyone seemed to be keeping their cards very close to their chests and details have only recently been posted on the relevant Web sites, often without the usual accompanying fanfare of press releases, etc.
As far as the apparent scaling-down is concerned, there's nothing to compare with last year's free Chili Peppers (Silver Bowl) or Berlin (Fremont Street Experience) concerts; the Hilton will not be repeating its free firework display; and Lake Las Vegas, Primm Valley Resorts, and others seem to have seriously downsized their efforts. For example, the latter has only a private party for casino VIPs this year, taking place on July 3. If you happen to be staying there, you'll probably get to see the display, since it's kind of hard to keep fireworks "exclusive," but neither we nor the property would recommend a special trip out there.
On July 1, Caesars Palace also has a private party for casino VIPs, with fireworks by the pool — you should be able to see them from the Strip and we're guessing the Voodoo Lounge (Rio) or Ghost Bar (Palms) would offer good vantage points. We're not sure what time the show starts, since we're not guests of the party and Caesars didn't want to release too many details. Both this display and the one out at Primm are being put on by Grucci, the pyrotechnic family that provides most of Vegas' (and the nation's) biggest firework spectaculars, so we'd count on them consisting of more than just a couple of sparklers and a Catherine Wheel.
And even though some parties may be by invitation only this year, there are still plenty of public events taking place — some local, some large — with no shortage of fireworks. So starting with the biggest and working our way down, here goes:
Admission prices are: 1-day — $17.50 in advance ($22 day of show); 2-day — $30; kids 12 and under are free. Limited VIP admission is available for $150 and includes VIP parking, access to the air-conditioned tent, seating, and food and beverages (discounted alcohol) throughout the day.
The scheduled band lineup for the two days is due to be as follows (may be subject to change):
July 3 Fletch Saving Jane Seether Flogging Molly Hawthorne Heights Social Distortion
July 4 Train Away Station Jacks Mannequin Colin Hay (Men at Work) Ne-Yo Blue October Fireworks/National Anthem - 9 pm (20-minute display)
For those without their own transport, the CAT bus operates a regular service on two routes from the Strip to Desert Breeze.
