North Orange County, CA is so Patriotic, They Start Early

North Orange County loves the fourth of July so much, that they start celebrating on the third! Yes, the city of Orange starts at 4 p.m. at the Fred Kelly Stadium with games, music and food and have an extra fireworks display going off at about 9 p.m.

Many of the areas cities with be holding concerts, fairs and parades on the fourth itself. Many of the cities (most notably Orange, Anaheim, Fullerton, La Habra, Placentia and Yorba Linda) suggested visiting the Orange County Register's website, www.ocregister.com, for a list of all the activities, times and ticket prices in their fair towns.

One of the stand out events for the area is a real live Statue of Liberty! Suzanne Haring, 49, is a hometown gal who is a professional mime. She has been dressing and performing as Lady Liberty in many well-known venues. She displayed her rather quiet patriotic talent at the 2004 Republican National Convention in New York City. Last month she was a guest in China at the First International Clown Festival.

Haring will be in full green regalia at the 18th annual Community Fireworks and Festival being held at the Fullerton Union High School Stadium. For her, the real fun is when visitors watch her intently, trying to detect any movement. During breaks she loves to shake their hands. The first thing she says most of the admirers do is check their hands-to see if any of the green comes off onto their hands. "Everyone laughs", says Haring.

The north part of the county is the only part that still have cities that allow the sale and personal use of fireworks. They are: Buena Park, Costa Mesa, Garden Grove, Santa Ana and Stanton.

The Orange County Fire Authority will be in charge of shooting off over 36 fireworks displays throughout the area. Most shows will begin close to 9 p.m. and last anywhere between 15 minutes and up to a half hour.

Anaheim's main show will stem from Peralta Canyon Park. Fullerton at Fullerton Union High School Stadium. La Habra is a bit later at 9:15 at La Habra High School. Placentia at the Bradford Stadium. Yorba Linda will be using Veterans Park and the Yorba Linda Middle School.

For a complete list of show times and best spots to park your family picnics contact www.ocfa.org

So if you're interested in seeing a real live Statue of Liberty, a parade, festivals and beautiful fireworks without the crowds forming at the beaches, come visit North Orange County.