Places, events, fireworks around Indianapolis to celebrate the Fourth of July

July 2, 7:42 AMIndianapolis Parenting ExaminerCristi DeHoff

Previous Next

1 comment Print Email RSS Subscribe

Subscribe

Get alerts when there is a new article from the Indianapolis Parenting Examiner. Read Examiner.com's terms of use.

Email Address   Include other special offers from Examiner.com Terms of Use

Maura "reading" about our independence

Want to celebrate our country's freedom with a little more than just a barbecue in the back yard? There are several places around Indianapolis to celebrate, and not just on July 4th.

The WTHR website has several locations and events going on, including parades, "fun runs," a symphony, festivals, and of course, fireworks. These are offered in several cities, so you may want to check out this site.

Downtown Indianapolis will be putting on their large fireworks show this Fourth of July, the Freedom Blast Fireworks. They are scheduled to begin around 9:45pm.

July 3rd is when Beech Grove holds their annual celebration. In Sarah Bolton Park, beginning around 4pm, there will be games, food and fun. The parking is limited, but the fireworks show & admission is free. People are allowed to bring their own picnic baskets, but no alcohol is permitted.

If you are taking little ones to see fireworks, I would suggest sitting a bit farther from the action, unless you know they won't be afraid. Since the kids will probably get restless while waiting for the show, try to bring along activities and/ or snacks to keep them occupied. Bubbles are an inexpensive way to keep them busy. You could also bring coloring books & crayons, or books to read. And don't forget to take insect repellent and a blanket to sit on.

Of course, fireworks is not what the Fourth of July is about, and we believe that our children are old enough to begin learning about our country's history, a bit more in depth. We will talk about the freedoms we do have and why, how we keep them and why we are so blessed to live in a country where we can be independent.

Do you have a favorite Fourth of July memory? Do you have any helpful hints on taking children to a celebration or fireworks show, or how to teach younger ones history, so it's fun for them? Please share with us. You can e-mail me at cristidehoff@yahoo.com.