This week, America celebrates one of its biggest national holidays and a highlight of every summer, Independence Day, also known as the 4th of July. Officially it commemorates the signing of the United Stated Declaration of Independence in 1776. That was a long time ago, but it’s definitely not forgotten. On Friday next, every city and town in America, no matter how large or small, will honor the 4th of July.
In the Dallas/Ft.Worth Metroplex, there is a plethora of places and activities where you can enjoy typical 4th of July events. Traditional celebrations include fireworks, parades, sporting events, and family get-togethers. In Texas, typical foods include B-B-Q, watermelon, ice cream, hamburgers, and hot dogs.
Whether you’re going to a big shindig or a more intimate gathering of family and close friends, 4th of July is a time to eat, drink, be merry, and fly your US flag with pride. I love fireworks but dislike crowds, so I stay close to home and enjoy the Lakewood parade, sans the crowd of places like Kaboom Town and Fairpark. These photos are from last year. It’s colorful, fun, and friendly.
Where will you be enjoying the 4th this year?
The Lakewood neighborhood parade is obviously a family affair, supported by many local businesses. A special aspect of this parade is all the vintage cars!
http://www.lakewoodparade.com/Parade.shtml
About.com has a full listing of where to watch fireworks, covering the entire Dallas/Ft. Worth area.
To break it down a bit for you, the Dallas Observer listed their top 5 places for fireworks:
5. Star Spangled Spectacular at Meyerson Symphony Center is a perfect slice of Americana with ice cream, a classic sing-along, and an 11-foot tall Uncle Sam. However, the most impressive offering is the indoor firework ext How often can you enjoy fireworks in an air-conditioned building? Tickets range from $16 to $38. Call 214-670-3600 or visit dallasculture.org/meyersonSymphonyCenter for tickets and more information.
4. Lone Stars & Stripes Celebration at Lone Star Park is a two-day event with thoroughbred horse races, petting zoos, face painters, and a 2011 Chevrolet Silverado giveaway. Don’t miss out on the 20-minute choreographed fireworks display on July 3 and 4. Tickets range from $8 to $30. Call 972-263-PONY or visit lonestarpark.com for tickets and more information.
3. Red, White and Boom! is a free, all-day Fourth celebration that features a car show, parade, and music. The festivities start at 10 am in Historic Downtown McKinney, and the fireworks show begins at 9:45 pm at Craig Ranch. Visit mckinneytexas.org for more information and the complete schedule of events.
2. Fair Park Fourth at Fair Park is one of the biggest fireworks show in North Texas. Enjoy pedal boat rides, water shows, musical performances, and fireworks that can only be defined as epic. Oh, did we mention the fireworks show is free? Plus, there’s also free and discounted admission to the museums at Fair Park. Visit fairpark.org for more information.
1. Kaboom Town! at Addison Circle Park has always been the must-see firework spectacular in this neck of the woods. Brace yourself for a mind-blowing experience with air shows, musical acts, and a 30-minute fireworks show. Visit addisontexas.net for more information.
Whatever you do have a happy and safe 4th!
