School has let out, the rains have ceased, and summer is in full swing in Austin—with July 4 right around the corner. So where’s the best place to celebrate Independence Day? Here are some ideas:
- Mingle with your neighbors at one of the many neighborhood parades around town. You’ll probably see several of the Blairfield team at the Barton Hills parade. Be sure to dress up your bike, your pooch or yourself in some patriotic garb and head on down!
- Join Willie Nelson at his beloved 4th of July Picnic, which returns to Austin for the first time in five years. Tickets start at $35 and buy you entrance to an all-day event at the Austin 360 Amphitheater that features performances by more than 20 artists on two stages. RV, camping, and tailgating are available, as are VIP packages for you lucky souls.
- Enjoy some old-fashioned fun at the July Fourth Frontier Days Celebration in Old Settlers Park in Round Rock. From a pepper eating contest to rubber duck races, carnival rides, pig races and more, there’s something for everyone—and the event is free for the whole family.
- Be serenaded as you watch a beautiful fireworks display. One of the largest Independence Day celebrations in the state, the July 4 Austin Symphony and fireworks show is an Austin tradition. And there’s good news this year: although the event has been cancelled due to fire restrictions in recent years, it looks like the show will go on in 2015! Come on down to Vic Mathias Shores (formerly known as Auditorium Shores) in front of the Long Center for the Performing Arts, and enjoy a free live performance of patriotic tunes by the Austin Symphony, followed by a beautiful fireworks display over Lady Bird Lake. Food, drink, and local arts and crafts will be for sale, or you can bring your own picnic. Music starts at 8:30pm, and the “mile-high” fireworks will begin around 9:30pm. Check out the Austin Symphony website for more information, including directions and transportation options.
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