Red, White, and Woo-Hoo! 4th of July Fun in Cortland County
Ready to light up your summer? Cortland County is pulling out all the stops this Independence Day, with small-town charm, big-time celebrations, and enough fireworks to make Lady Liberty proud. Whether you're in it for the history, the food, or the sparkle in the sky, we’ve got something for everyone.
Here’s your guide to the best 4th of July events in Cortland County—so grab your lawn chair, wear your stars and stripes, and prepare for a weekend full of family fun and patriotic pride!
Declaration of Independence Reading
Friday, July 4, 2024 | 10 AM | Center for the Arts of Homer
History buffs and proud patriots alike will love this annual tradition. Join Charles W. Jermy Jr. and Charles W. Jermy III as they recount the dramatic events of 1776 and read the Declaration of Independence aloud with the community. Bells will ring, flags will wave, and hearts will swell with pride on the Homer Village Green.
Fireworks at Hope Lake Park
Saturday July 5, 2024 | Fireworks at Dusk | Hope Lake Park, Cortland
Celebrate summer in the coolest way possible—at the lake! Head to Hope Lake Park at Greek Peak Mountain Resort for an unforgettable evening of outdoor fun, live entertainment, and a fireworks show that lights up the sky (and your Instagram feed).
Spend the day swimming, boating, or casting a line in the sparkling waters of Hope Lake, then stick around as the party kicks off with live music, delicious food, and all the good vibes. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and your whole crew—it’s the perfect lakeside hangout.
As the sun sets over the hills, the sky comes alive with a dazzling fireworks finale you won’t want to miss.
- 2000 State Route 392, Cortland, NY
- Fireworks begin at dusk—don’t be late!
For family-friendly fireworks in Cortland County, this lakeside celebration is pure summer magic.
Cortland County Independence Day Spectacular
Saturday, July 5, 2025 | 2–10 PM | Dwyer Memorial Park, Preble
Celebrate freedom, fireworks, and family fun at the Cortland County Independence Day Spectacular! This all-day event at scenic Dwyer Memorial Park on Little York Lake is your one-stop spot for live music, local eats, and lakeside lounging.
Gates open at 8 AM, and starting at 2 PM, the outdoor stage comes alive with a full music lineup curated by the Center for the Arts of Homer. Enjoy performances from local favorites including The Elderly Brothers (3 PM), Steve Daniels Band (4 PM), 5 at the Door (5 PM), Second Spring (6 PM), Old Timers Band in the Pavilion (6:30 PM), People People (7 PM), and Maddy Walsh & The Blind Spots (8 PM).
Grab a bite (or three) from local food vendors and enjoy a cold one from the cash bar while you soak up the sounds of summer. When dusk falls, look to the sky—this year’s fireworks show promises to be bigger, better, and longer than ever! For a truly immersive experience, tune your radio to X101 Always Classic and enjoy the synchronized sky concert from your blanket or lawn chair.
- Just $5 per vehicle gets you access to the park for the day.
- In case of rain, fireworks will fly on Sunday, July 6.
For the biggest 4th of July celebration in Cortland County, this is the place to be!
Get your daily dose of Cortland cool. Tag @experiencecortland607 and use #experiencecortland to snag your shot at Insta-fame!