Make Fourth of July Sizzle

All around Texas’ gulf region, communities get together to celebrate the anniversary of our country’s Independence. Don’t miss out on the fabulous fireworks, concerts and patriotic parades.

Celebration is in the air as the city of Houston hosts Freedom Over Texas,the Mayor’s “official Fourth of July event,” offering six hours of fun and festivities for all. Gather together with the crowds in Eleanor Tinsley Park on Buffalo Bayou, and be a part of this fine tradition. Pick your zone: the event features a family fitness zone, an entertaining and educational zone kids’ zone and more – even the “Red, White and Green Scene,” showcasing environmentally friendly alternatives like wind energy and solar power. Highlights of the festival are sure to be the live entertainment and the fireworks extravaganza synced to current and patriotic music. For more information, visit www.houstontx.gov/july4/index.html.

Give a big “hats off” to America as Miller Outdoor Theatre in Houston presents ExxonMobil Star-Spangled Salute. This unique concert celebration gives you the opportunity to enjoy the 1812 Overture complimented by the quaking boom of cannons. The concert begins at 8:30pm and the event will be finished off with a crescendo of fireworks, courtesy of the Miller Theatre Advisory Board and the City of Houston. Complimentary sets of tickets will be available for the covered seating section while supplies last at the box office from 10:30am to 1pm on July 4. The hill also offers open seating. For more information, visit www.milleroutdoortheatre.com/en/cev/131.

Celebrate Independence Day with a bang in South Padre Island as the South Padre Island Convention & Visitors Bureau presents this year’s Fourth of July Fireworks. It’s sure to be a dazzling display, beginning at 9:15pm on July 4. The best place to see the show is Bayside between Palm Street and Red Snapper Street. For more information call (956) 761-6433, or visit www.sopadre.com/events/event_detail.php?id=56.

The city of Bellaire proudly invites all to attend their July 4^th Parade and Festival. Bring the kids to join in the festive children’s parade of decorated bicycles, tricycles and wagons that will lead the main parade. No pre-registration is necessary for the children’s parade. This year’s parade showcases the theme of “My Country Tis’ of Thee.” Following the parade, the fun continues as Bellaire Town Square comes alive with carnival games, a mini Ferris wheel, a petting zoo, moon jumps for the kids and even a dunk tank.  Food will be available for purchase. It’s sure to be a good time, so bring the family. For more information, visit www.ci.bellaire.tx.us/index.aspx?NID=879.

Whatever you do, have yourself a fabulous and fun Fourth of July.