4th of July celebrations at Lake of the Ozarks

LAKE OF THE OZARKS, Mo. — Many people flock to Lake of the Ozarks for the Fourth of July to spend the day on the water. There are few ways to celebrate Independence Day in the area including a few fireworks displays that can be viewed from the water.

A fireworks display is scheduled to start at 9:45 p.m. at Bear Bottom Resort in Sunrise Beach. The new owner, Lindsay Burth, says he is expecting a full house on the lake and on land in their cabins, bars, restaurant and RV spaces.

In years past, the resort has seen nearly a thousand boats in their cove to watch the display. Burth says its a good idea to claim your spot on the water early.

“We want people to have a good time, but also remain safe,” Burth said. “And use common sense when they’re out on their boats and everything to that effect. So nobody gets hurt.”

Bear Bottom Resort says there is something special about being on the lake for the Fourth of July. Burth says the resort has been busy this week, and has seen the kind of crowd they would expect on a Saturday on a Tuesday, which is typically a slower day during a typical week.

“It’s just the atmosphere and the vibrance,” Burth said. “And everybody’s having, you know, everybody’s here for one reason, and that’s just, you know, celebrate America and have a good time.”

Despite the possibility of rain for this evening, Bear Bottom says they will only cancel the fireworks for lightning and worst-case scenario, they will set them off a little early.

In addition to the display at Bear Bottom, there are other displays scheduled for the Lake of the Ozarks area , including:

• Point Randall Resort
• Margaritaville Lake Resort
• Captain Ron’s Bar and Grill
• Boondockz Lakefront Bar and Restaurant
• Encounter Cove

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com.