Crowds gather for Pittsburgh's 4th of July celebration
People made their way to Pittsburgh on Friday for the city's Fourth of July festivities.
The holiday celebration took place on the North Shore and Mount Washington this year instead of Point State Park, which is undergoing a renovation project ahead of hosting the 2026 NFL Draft.
Friday's celebration kicked off at 4 p.m., with the fireworks display from the Ohio River starting at 9:35 p.m. and ending at 10 p.m.
2025 Independence Day Celebration in Pittsburgh
Pittsburghers ready to enjoy the holiday fun went to the North Shore or Mount Washington.
On the North Shore, people packed the Great Lawn to get a front-row seat for the fireworks. There were two music stages, food trucks, a family fun center and an 80-foot-tall hot air balloon.
For those who went to the Grandview Park BandStand on Mount Washington, there was live music, activities for kids, local food and an elevated view of the fireworks display.
"We're here to have fun, enjoy the view, listen to the awesome singing. ... and celebrating our independence," Ineke Haight of Ohio said on Friday evening.
At both places, the spirit of America was on full display. Samuel Dean is from England but was in the Steel City with friends for the Fourth of July.
"Why would you bring a Brit to a July 4th celebration?" KDKA's Ricky Sayer asked Dean's friend, Bryan Gielarowski.
"It's all about celebrating the greatest country on the planet and rubbing it directly in his face," Brian said.
The day means something different to everyone, including Roo Rangdale, a permanent U.S. resident from India.
"It means freedom," Rangdale said. "It means I can live the life the way I want to."
The big celebrations will return to the point next year in time for America's 250th birthday.
