The Best 4th of July Celebrations in Houston, Texas

Over 230 years ago the signers of the Declaration of Independence brought this great nation into being. With the state of the economy and rising costs it's easy to take for granted the freedoms we enjoy. More than just a day off to eat barbecue, July 4^th is a time to reflect on those freedoms and to show our patriotic spirit. However, if, after the barbecue is eaten and you and yours are looking for something special to do; don't despair. There's plenty to do in Houston.

Chevy's Freedom Over Texas

This is the largest 4^th of July celebration in the city. Holding the distinction of being the largest landbased fireworks display in the world, the pyrotechnics are underwritten by Shell Oil and promise to be even more spectacular this year. Three of country's reigning stars are headlining the event this year. Sara Evans., Miranda Lambert and Jo Dee Messina promise to keep the crowd up on their feet. Tickets for the event or $8.00 at the gate with the proceeds going to help Central Houston Civic Improvement, Inc. Children under 10 get in free.

Location: Eleanor Tinsley Park

4:00 p.m. - Gates open

5:00 to 8:00 p.m. - Live entertainment on all stages

6:30 p.m. - Jo Dee Messina

7:30 p.m. - Miranda Lambert

8:30 p.m. - Sara Evans

9:35 to 9:55 p.m. - Fireworks spectacular

Don't despair if you can't make it out to the park. The even will be televised statewide on Houston's ABC affiliate, KTRK, Channel 13.

Houston July 4^th Fireworks Cruise

If something more intimate and out of the ordinary is to your liking, then why not celebrate July 4^th on the water. The Kemah boardwalk sponsors a wonderful fireworks display. See this exciting spectacle from the luxury of one of Starfleet yachts. The cruise gives you a one of a kind front row seat for the pyrotechnic display. Enjoy a barbecue dinner as you are ferried to the fireworks barge. Once there you have an unobstructed view of all the festivities.

$69* per adult

$39* for children under 12

Map and Directions

Star Fleet Entertainment Yachts

280 Grove Rd

Kemah, TX 77565

Phone: (281) 334-4692

Kemah Boardwalk

If dining and looking out at the fireworks is more to your liking then take little trip down to Kemah. Kemah boasts one of the best boardwalks around anywhere. The boardwalk offers access to a wide variety of restaurants so that you can watch the fireworks as you enjoy a wonderful meal. If you're already chock a block with barbecue, then swing by and stake you out a spot on the boardwalk.

Fireworks start at 9:30 pm.

Houston Symphony: A Star Spangled Salute

If you prefer a more traditional 4^th of July with the Symphony playing in concert with a wonderful fireworks display, then join the Houston Symphony under the direction of Michael Krajewski and Soprano, Kaitlyn Lusk.

Dates: Friday, July 4, 2008 8:00 PM

Location: Miller Theatre in Hermann Park

Admission: FREE

Galveston's 4th of July Parade, Celebration and Fireworks

Maybe a whole day of patriotism is for you. If so then join the people of Galveston for a full day of events. The day kicks off with a parade at 10 am. This is no ordinary parade. You have the opportunity to be part of the happenings. Decorate your favorite mode of transportation and participate in the parade. After the parade there will be a 4^th of July event at the Sealy Pavilion. Free hot dogs and drinks will be available along with free flags for the kids. The evening concludes with a grand finale featuring a spectacular fireworks display over the Gulf of Mexico at 37^th St.

Sam Houston Race Park: Annual July 4^th Fireworks Extravaganza

If you like your July 4^th with a side of horseflesh, then Sam Houston Race Park is a must do this July 4^th. See the quarter horse races, dine on great food, see live performances and end the evening with a wonderful fireworks show.

When: Friday, July 4, 2008

10:30 a.m. Gates open

5:00 p.m. Quarter Horse Racing Begins

Live Entertainment Between Races

9:30 p.m. Fireworks Display

Where: Sam Houston Race Park

7575 N. Sam Houston Parkway West

Houston, Texas 77064

Tickets:

Winner's Circle Package $44 per person or $39.95 for groups of 10 plus. Includes admission, racing program, tip sheet, $2 betting voucher, dinner at the Grande Buffet and your seat for the night

Club Level Package $19 per person and includes admission, Club Level counter seating, racing program, tip sheet, $2 betting voucher, entrée and a beverage
Regular admission $4 for adults; $2 Senior Citizens; children 12 and under get in FREE

Info: For more information, call 281-807-8760

If the price of gas is keeping you close to home, check with your civic club or homeowners association, they may be sponsoring a celebration and fireworks display in the neighborhood. Whatever you do this July 4^th, keep in mind the sacrifices that were made to enable us to celebrate.