Fireworks!!

Celebrate Independence Week in the Village!

There is no better place to spend the holiday week than right here in Hot Springs Village. We have a fantastic lineup of community events scheduled from July 2nd through July 5th to help you celebrate our nation’s independence, soak up the sunshine, and enjoy the best of our beautiful lakes and amenities. Whether you’re looking to get active with a 5K, cast a line in a fishing tournament, or just relax under a spectacular fireworks display, we have something for everyone.

Kick Off the Weekend: Patriotic Splash Party

Start your celebration early on Thursday, July 2, at 5:00 PM at the Outdoor Pool (205 DeSoto Blvd). We’re hosting a festive, patriotic-themed splash party to get the holiday energy going. It’s the perfect way to cool off with family and friends, featuring music, great food, and fun games. Keep an eye out for more details coming soon!

Family Fun: The Kids' Fishing Derby

On Friday, July 3, at 8:00 AM, we’re inviting the little ones to the Lake Cortez pavilion for a free Kids' Fishing Derby. It’s a wonderful morning for children to enjoy the water, with the lake specially stocked by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Sponsored by HSV Parks and Recreation, the Lakes Ecology team, and the Anglers Club, this event runs until about 10:30 AM. A limited number of loaner poles are available, but please bring your own if you have them! Registration isn't required for residents, but if you’re joining us from outside the Village, just call 922-5790 for a registration link.

Independence Day Action: Freedom 5K & Fireworks

Start your Saturday, July 4 with a bang at the Stars and Stripes Freedom 5K Fun Run and Walk at Lake Balboa Beach! Check-in starts at 6:30 AM, and the race kicks off at 7:30 AM. It’s a great way to start the holiday, and all runners will receive a custom finisher’s medal, with awards for top finishers. Note that there is a strict field limit of 175 runners, so be sure to register early—it's $20 online until July 2nd, and $25 onsite on July 3rd and 4th. You can also register or check in early at the garden next to the Coronado Fitness Center on July 3rd from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM.

As the sun sets, don't miss the main event: our Fireworks Spectacular at 9:15 PM over Lake Balboa. This yearly show is a community favorite, and we rely on your generous donations to keep it going. You can contribute to the fund by clicking the donation link below—every bit helps us light up the Village sky!

Wrap Up the Weekend: Anglers Fishing Tournament

Cap off your holiday weekend on Sunday, July 5, with the HSV Anglers Fishing Tournament on Lake Balboa. It’s an early start—fishing begins at 6:30 AM, with the weigh-in at 11:30 AM. The entry fee is $20 per team, plus an optional $5 for the Big Bass Pot, with all fees collected at the ramp. It’s a 100% payout event, so come out for some friendly competition and see who can land the biggest catch of the weekend!

Fireworks in Hot Springs

Ready to see the sky glow? We’ve got a fantastic lineup of displays coming your way this year. Whether you’re lakeside in Hot Springs or downtown in Little Rock, there’s a front-row seat waiting for you.

Holiday Sparkle in Hot Springs

If you’re near the water, make sure to catch the Lake Hamilton shows on May 24 (Memorial Day Sunday), July 4(Independence Day), and September 6 (Labor Day Sunday). The barges set up right across from the DoubleTree near the Highway 7 South Bridge, and the show starts as soon as it gets dark. It’s a local favorite—whether you’re watching from your car or floating on a boat, it’s a stunning view.

Pops on the River in Little Rock

For the ultimate Independence Day bash, you’ve got to head to downtown Little Rock for Pops on the River. It’s way more than just a fireworks show—it’s a full day of fun!

Eat & Shop: Grab a bite from the food trucks and check out the local makers at the Vendor Marketplace.

The Music: Find a spot and get ready for some incredible live sets from the Kemistri Band (featuring Nicky Parrish) and The Rodney Block Collective, all leading up to a massive performance by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra.

Military Appreciation: If you’re active duty, retired, or reserve, stop by the Military Appreciation Tent. You and your dependents can grab some giveaways and a discount card for the vendors. Plus, the first 100 members to check in get free reserved seating!

The Big Finale: At 9:15 p.m., the fireworks kick off over the Main Street Bridge. You can see them from all over downtown, and it’s the perfect end to the night.