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People everywhere are rejoicing about their 3 day weekends, their family cookouts, and the fireworks they have purchased in order to celebrate America's Independence Day. Many will gather at pools, parks, and local hotspots toasting to days off of work and our forefathers. If you find yourself with no plans this 4th of July weekend, don't panic, that's what I am here for. The festivities begin tomorrow (Thursday, July 3), so brace yourself! Here is a list of the best places in town to celebrate your independence.
* Red Hot & Boom - For 14 years the City of Altamonte has played host to this fantastic celebration that couples the hottest pop music acts with fireworks and all the 4th of July festivities. In addition to children's activities, vendor booths, food and drink stands, XL106.7 will be on hand broadcasting live. Artists scheduled to appear include: Evan Taubenfeld, Jessie James, The Cab, We the Kings, Matt Nathanson, Hey Monday, Carolina Liar and Kevin Rudolf & Parachute. Rain or shine, Red Hot & Boom begins at 4 pm and is a can't miss event for pop music lovers and fun loving families.
* Dexter's 4th of July Bash- Dexter's in Winter Park is celebrating the 4th with two nights of drink specials, barbecue, and live music by local band Trans Ams. Beginning at 930 pm on both nights (July 3 and July 4), Dexter's will ring in Independence Day with delicious barbecue food and rock music. There is no cover for this event and it is all ages.
* Fireworks at the Fountain - In the market for a free event featuring almost every radio station in town as well as vendors and perhaps get a sneak peak of Mayor Buddy Dyer? Well, you're in luck! On Saturday, Lake Eola will be one of the best places in Orlando to see fireworks, concerts, and indulge in treats from local vendors and entertainment from six local radio stations. Highlights of the day will include the K92FM "Colgate Country Showdown” at the amphitheater and classic rock on the 96.5 WHTQ stage. All the festivities kick off at 4 pm and the 15 minute fireworks finale will begin at 915 pm. Bring the family and enjoy a great day at one of downtown Orlando's most beloved spots.
* The O' Jays - Ok, Ok, I know this isn't an "official" 4th of July tradition but how can you say no to the O'Jays? Universal Orlando's Summer Concert Series has been showcasing artists from all genres and this weekend The O'Jays are part of a special 4th of July celebration. If you don't find yourself getting down to "Love Train" I am afraid we can never be friends. What a fantastic way to celebrate the weekend...and I'm pretty sure if you stay long enough you can catch some fireworks from one of the nearby parks.
* 4th of July at The Clubhouse - Known as a haven for local fans and downtown dwellers, The Clubhouse is a great place to grab a bite and a cold beer. Never one to miss a chance to party, The Clubhouse is offering $10 all-you-can-eat barbecue buffet (starting at noon and running til 8 pm), live music and patriotic drink specials including $2 Jell-O shots, $2 Budweiser and Budweiser Select and $2 electric lemonades. Live music starts at 5 pm. Whether you want to make this your Saturday destination or you plan on doing the downtown crawl, The Clubhouse is great spot to meet up with friends and enjoy a game of pool or just a televised game. These specials seem to apply to the downtown location only.
* 4th of July Celebration in Avalon Park - Every year the downtown area in Avalon Park is with families and local "Avalonians" enjoying street vendors, activities like hot dog eating contests, bounce parks, and fireworks. This year is no different although new local restaurant Davis Bakery is getting into the mix with an Apple Pie bake off. There will also be a bike parade and community performances. The fireworks finale starts at 9 pm. Make sure you get a spot early for the fireworks because Avalon fills up fast!
* Fourth of July at CityWalk - If theme parks are more your speed, Universal is inviting you to spend the weekend joy riding and taking in all the festivities they have to offer. Included in regular park admission, folks will be treated to a massive fireworks display in which Universal Orlando, Islands of Adventure, and CityWalk will all shoot off their own displays simultaneously! CityWalk will offer a variety of games for the entire family, including a balloon toss, and watermelon, hot dog and pie eating contests, and musical chairs. And don't forget, stay for live music by The O'Jays! Price of park admission is $75 1-day 1-park, $89.99 1-day 2-parks.
* Fourth of July at Lakefront Park - For our Osceola County neighbors, Lakefront Park in Kissimee is having a big celebration from 10 am to 10 pm this Saturday. Bring the entire family and enjoy live entertainment, food and drinks, karaoke, arts and craft, a water-ski show, and a huge fireworks display. Make Uncle Sam proud and come out to one of Kissimee's largest Independence Day celebrations!
* 4th of July Concert by Amuka - The Parliament House is celebrating the holiday weekend with a concert by Amuka this Saturday. Offering $1 barbecue, patrons can lounge by the pool, grab a drink at one of the many bars spread throughout the complex, and stay late to see a performance by the Footlight Players. The P-House is known to encourage lots of fun so be sure to reserve a room if you plan on celebrating with some beverages.
* Flashback 4th of July Celebration - The town of Celebration is going back in time this 4th of July as they celebrate the '70's with costume contests, a fireworks display set to a soundtrack of 70's hits ( who would've thought fireworks could be so pretty when accompanied by "Disco Duck?") In addition, teachers from Arthur Murray's Dance Schools will be on hand to teach you "The Hustle!" Don't worry if the 70's theme is a bit lost on the kids. There will be a kid's zone complete with inflatable games and face painting. Put on your leisure suit or that hot polyester jumpsuit you've been saving and bring in the 4th like it's the bicentennial all over again. This far out event is free and open to the public (open from 9 am to 11 pm).
Whether you find yourself traveling back in time this holiday weekend or staying local at taking in the fireworks with a close knit group, there is something for everyone in Orlando. It is your patriotic duty to be safe, drink, grill, and play with fireworks responsibly and don't forget to toast to our incredible Independence!