City of Pittsburgh Finalizes Public Safety and Event Preparations for July Fourth Festivities 

City of Pittsburgh residents and visitors should note that there will be no event activities, mooring, parking, or viewing at Point State Park this year due to the ongoing construction project being conducted by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). Point State Park will be fully closed on Friday, July 4, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. to visitor and pedestrian access at the park entrance locations along Commonwealth Place, Fort Duquesne Pedestrian Bridge, Fort Pitt Pedestrian Bridge, and the Allegheny and Monongahela Wharfs. Point State Park’s parking concession located on Commonwealth Place will remain closed for repairs during the site improvement project. 

In addition to the main event location at the North Shore Riverfront Park, viewers are encouraged to safely enjoy the fireworks display from one of the many scenic spots Pittsburgh has to offer, including the Roberto Clemente/Sixth Street Bridge, Grandview Park, the West End Overlook, Mount Washington Overlook, the North Shore River Trail, and other locations across Pittsburgh that offer clear views of the skyline.  

As people gather in these designated spots and in neighborhood backyards, rooftops, and green spaces throughout the city, our first responders are fully staffed and at the ready to ensure a safe and festive Fourth of July. 

"A tremendous amount of planning has gone into creating an Independence Day celebration Pittsburgh can truly be proud of," said Mayor Ed Gainey. “Our Departments of Public Safety and Citiparks teams have worked tirelessly to deliver an exceptional event that puts both entertainment and safety at the forefront. I encourage all residents and visitors to enjoy the festivities and celebrate responsibly.” 

Pittsburgh Police patrol officers, supported by the Bureau's multiple specialty units, and its County and State partners will be highly visible and providing security on the North Shore and throughout the city. Public Safety Crossing Guards will also be on hand to help pedestrians cross at key intersections. 

Two Pittsburgh EMS Medic units will be stationed on the North Shore and two will be stationed on Mount Washington, in addition to multiple bicycle and motorcycle medic units throughout. Three River Rescue boats and the Pittsburgh Fire Boat will be on the water to ensure boater safety on the three rivers. Signs will be posted prohibiting boat moorage surrounding the North Shore event space. The Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire Inspector will be overseeing all safety aspects of the main fireworks display. 

North Shore Riverfront Park is the central hub for the day's events, with additional entertainment being provided at the Grandview Park Band Stand. On the North Shore From 4-10 p.m., the park will feature a family-friendly lineup of free events and entertainment, as well as on-site food vendors and the return of the hot air balloon. Parents should note a lost children’s space will be located within the Citiparks Information Tent near the NFL countdown clock.  

Light bag checks will be conducted by security at the three designated entrances to the park. Please refer to the list of prohibited items in the graphic below and the event map for entrance locations.  

For the full line-up of entertainment at North Shore Riverfront Park and Grandview Park please visit the city’s event page here.  

“Pittsburgh loves its fireworks, and the Department of Public Safety is ready to assist where needed and is looking forward to celebrating alongside our neighbors," said Public Safety Director, Lee Schmidt. “Our mission is to ensure everyone's safety not only during the fireworks display, but during the entire day's events. The public is reminded that they can help our first responders—as always, if you see something, say something.”