FirstEnergy Stadium will be alive with excitement on July 4th, as families decked out in red, white, and blue pour in for an evening of baseball, tributes, and a fireworks show like no other. The concourse will buzz with kids waving foam fingers, parents lining up for snacks, and veterans proudly wearing their service caps.
This patriotic evening is not just about fun; as PA car accident lawyers point out, with large crowds and road closures, safety should always come first.
From military salutes and game action to a record-breaking fireworks display, here’s everything you need to know about Reading’s big night, including travel tips and staying safe through the festivities.
Military Appreciation Night & Game Build-Up
The Reading Fightin Phils will host Military Appreciation Night against the Somerset Patriots, transforming the stadium into a tribute to local heroes. Special military-themed jerseys will be worn by players, later given to 25 honored service members during a touching post-game ceremony — each honoree will walk the field and receive a personalized team jersey to mark the occasion.
A giant American flag will set the tone pre-game, unfurled near the stadium’s dog-tag memorial during the national anthem and ceremonial tribute.
Kids will enjoy a lively family zone with games, face painting, and photo booths themed with patriotic decor. Team mascots, like Screwball, will roam the stands taking pictures, and sponsors like Savage 61 Auto Group will help organize group salutes and on-field honors.
Baseball Highlights & Giveaways
The game will kick off at 7 p.m., promising a classic minor-league baseball experience with high-energy plays and community moments. Between innings, the team will host on-field interviews, special guests, and the ceremonial first pitch to celebrate local veterans.
A standout feature of the evening will be the military group giveaway: any organized group of 20 or more military members will receive jerseys actually worn by players — a unique, personal keepsake to commemorate the night.
In-game contests, like the crowd-favorite “run the bases” for kids, and military trivia challenges, will keep everyone engaged. A live DJ will add a festive soundtrack, with tunes filling the stadium between innings.
Fireworks After the Game
As the final pitch sails across home plate, the real show will just be beginning. Fans will turn their eyes to the sky as the Carpenter MEGABLAST fireworks display — billed as Reading’s largest in-stadium show ever — bursts into life around 9–9:30 p.m.
The 25-minute show will light up the night with dazzling reds, blues, and golds exploding directly above FirstEnergy Stadium, choreographed to a patriotic soundtrack that will echo across the ballpark.
Fans will be encouraged to stay inside the stadium to enjoy the full display safely with unobstructed views from the stands.
Pro tip: Arrive early if you plan to leave after the game and return for fireworks — re-entry lines can get long.
Road Closures & Travel Tips
With crowds streaming into the area, drivers will face temporary closures on Centre Ave and Stadium Drive before and after the game. These closures will help secure safe pedestrian spaces and accommodate military tributes outside the gates.
We recommend planning alternate routes to avoid congestion. If you’re driving, be patient — don’t tailgate in slow-moving traffic, and watch for sudden stops as pedestrians cross near parking lots.
Parking: Public lots closest to the stadium will fill quickly. Arriving early or booking prepaid parking can make your trip smoother. If possible, use rideshare services or carpool to cut down on traffic and save time.
Family-Friendly Activities & Fan Experience
Before the first pitch, kids will line up for face-painting stations, inflatable batting cages, and bounce houses. Photos with Screwball and other team mascots will be a hit, with lines forming early at the themed backdrops.
Families will pose for pictures with military displays around the concourse, taking advantage of the patriotic decor for memorable shots.
After the fireworks, many families take a leisurely post-game stroll around the stadium area, grabbing late-night snacks like hot dogs, ice cream, or funnel cakes from vendors still serving as the crowd slowly thins.
Safety Notes & Best Practices
With thousands gathering, it’s important to stay aware:
- Keep kids close during the post-game fireworks egress, when crowds are at their densest.
- Wear proper shoes — stadium steps and curbs can get slippery in the evening dew or if there are unexpected summer showers.
- Bring water and sunscreen for the game’s early innings; July sun can be harsh before dusk.
- First-aid booths are located near the main entrances — note their spots when you arrive so you’re prepared if anyone in your group needs help.
- Practice patience when exiting the stadium area, and give yourself extra time to get home safely.
Conclusion
Reading’s July 4 bash blends America’s favorite pastime, heartfelt military tributes, and a breathtaking fireworks show into one hometown event for the books. Families, friends, and veterans come together under the lights of FirstEnergy Stadium to celebrate the Fourth in classic Pennsylvania style.
Enjoy the sparkle — and stay safe behind the wheel. If you or a loved one is involved in an accident before, during, or after the event, PA Injury Lawyers, P.C. is here to support you.
Wishing everyone a safe, joyful, and truly patriotic Independence Day in Reading!
