Southwest Michigan’s most patriotic party is Thursday night—on the banks of the St. Joseph River and the shores of Lake Michigan.
The Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra’s “Salute to America” concert returns to Silver Beach’s Shadowland Pavilion in St. Joseph on Thursday, July 3, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening of live music, food trucks, lakefront sunsets, and fireworks over the water.
🎶 Concert Time: Begins at 8:30 p.m.
🎟️ Gates Open: 7:30 p.m.
📍 Location: 101 Broad Street, St. Joseph (Silver Beach Pavilion)
🚫 Note to ticke buyers: There is no rain date or indoor location if weather becomes an issue.
This annual celebration is a Southwest Michigan summer tradition, combining patriotic classics, movie themes, and a fireworks finale choreographed to Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture.” It’s music under the stars with a view you can’t beat—especially when the fireworks launch over Lake Michigan just after dusk.
Extra fun for families includes a hands-on “instrument petting zoo” hosted by the Citadel Dance & Music Center, letting kids (and curious adults) try out real orchestral instruments.
🎟️ Ticket Options:
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Lawn Seating: $30 adults / $10 youth (ages 6–17) / Free for kids 5 & under
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Reserved Chairs: $40 (very limited – often sells out)
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VIP Tables for 8: $370 (includes 2 parking passes) – only a few left!
Tickets are available online now and strongly recommended in advance, as reserved seating has sold out in recent years.
🍴 Food & Drink:
Outside food or drink is not permitted by County Park regulations, but a great selection of food trucks and a beer/wine tent will be on-site:
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Ben’s Soft Pretzels
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Crepes by the Lakes
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Lost Coast Shave Ice
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Nola Roux Cajun Eatery
All vendors accept cash and cards. Adults 21+ can purchase drink tickets at the bar tent (bring your ID).
🌤️ Weather Outlook:
As of now, the July 3 forecast is shaping up beautifully:
Clear skies, 80° at sunset, cooling into the 70s by fireworks time.
So, pack your lawn chairs, gather your crew, and head to the lakefront for a perfect night of summer celebration—music, memories, and fireworks in the heart of Michigan’s Great Southwest.
For more info and tickets, visit: www.smso.org
