More than 350K attend Nashville Fourth of July celebration

Attendees weather the heat and storms at one of the nation’s largest July 4 shows.
Thousands of people weathered the storms to see Nashville's fireworks show at the annual Let Freedom Sing event in downtown Nashville.
Published: Jul. 5, 2024 at 12:09 AM CDT

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - More than an estimated 350,000 weathered the storm and attended Thursday’s Let Freedom Sing! Fourth of July show in downtown Nashville.

The estimated attendance of 355,000 by event organizers and Metro Nashville Police Department set a new record for the event. Due to weather, the concert was temporarily paused but the drone and fireworks show proceeded on schedule.

“Once again, Music City delivered another spectacular Independence Day celebration, and the fireworks and drown show choreographed to the Nashville Symphony was a highlight,” Deana Ivey, President and CEO, Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp., said in a statement.

While many spoke about the heat and the weather delay, all the chatter was drowned out when music and fireworks took over.

“Just the energy with the crowd, the bands, the artists, and just being able to see the fireworks which are by far one of the best shows I’ve seen in years,” said Rick Meyers of Nashville.

This year’s Fourth of July celebration is the third hottest in Nashville’s history.

“We’re going in and out of stores and enjoying the AC,” said tourist Emily Nichols.

“We’re doing our best to stay hydrated and suggest that anybody drinks water because it’s brutal,” said Meyers.

Event organizers set up a few ways to help with the heat. Organizers propped up at least 10 massive misting fans, booths with drinking fountains, and constant reminders to stay hydrated.

“As firemen, we’re kind of used to the heat but we’re just here for a good time,” said Alabama firefighter Ana Ruzevic.

Many said regardless of everything the show is worth it all.

“We’ve never been to Nashville before. We hear it’s one of the best fireworks shows in the country so that’s why we came,” said tourist Jesse Miltenberger.

Performing artist Girl Named Tom says the experience is unmatched.

“To look out on Broadway and see all of these beautiful people gathered on the Fourth of July, it’s amazing,” Girl Named Tom group members said.

Although there was a lightning delay event staff re-adjusted, and the firework show went off without a hitch.