The patriotic spirit is alive and well around Houston this summer, and especially in preparation for July 4th next week! Whether you’re looking for parades in the area, specials at top attractions or a good old-fashioned party, we’ve got 5 places you’re going to want to visit this Independence Day.

Galveston

Celebrate July 4th in Galveston with the annual Independence Day Parade starting at 7:45 p.m. Cheer on the procession of floats, decorated military vehicles and performers as they cruise down Seawall Boulevard starting at 41st Street and continuing to 14th Street.

Fireworks show – Following the parade, find a cozy spot along the Seawall to watch the fireworks show sponsored by the Galveston Park Board of Trustees. Watch as the colorful display lights up the Gulf of Mexico near 37th Street for 20 whole minutes. The show starts at 9:15 p.m., so pick your viewing location early!

Brazosport

Bring your lawn chair and refreshments (no glass containers please!) and set up camp at the Lake Jackson Civic Center Plaza! Not only will you have a prime viewing spot for the night’s fireworks show, you’ll also get to enjoy Cole Degges, Texas artist and Nashville songwriter. Cole takes the stage at 7:30 p.m., and you’re guaranteed to have a great time rain or shine listening to his smooth country stylings. The event is free and will also feature tons of fun kids’ activities! (Learn more)

Fireworks show - The fireworks start at 9:20 p.m. and will be launched from Dunbar Park with prime viewing opportunities at the Brazos Mall parking lot and surrounding areas. Bonus: Download the Sky Wonder Pyrotechnics app for synchronized music during the show.

Other activities includeFirecracker 4 Run and the Rubber Duck Regatta

Bay Area Houston

kemah

Get your thrills in this July 4th with the “Patriot Pass” and extend the fun through to the weekend! This pass grants you access to three parks – Kemah Boardwalk, the Downtown Aquarium and Pleasure Pier - for the low price of $59.99. Parents and kids alike can enjoy five days of unlimited admission on rides at all three parks from July 4th through July 8th

Fireworks show - While you’re cashing in your Patriot Pass at Kemah Boardwalk this July 4th, make sure you plan to stay and enjoy the live music and patriotic fireworks show over Galveston Bay starting at 9:30 p.m.

Other activities include: 4th of July Kid’s Parade in Seabrook, League City Fireworks Extravaganza, July 4th Fireworks Cruise on the Boardwalk FantaSea

Baytown

You don’t want to miss Baytown’s two day Independence Day Celebration! The party kicks off on Tuesday, July 3rd at Bicentennial Park with Dennis Deyoung covering the music of Styx. On July 4th, welcome country music singer Roger Creager to the stage plus George Strait tribute artist, Brent Brunson! Chow down on food trucks and let your kids enjoy the special play zone while you shop the vendor booths.

Fireworks show – The explosive conclusion to the festival begins at 9:30 p.m. and will feature patriotic tunes as fireworks burst and shimmer over the park.

The Woodlands

Start the day at noon with a prime viewing spot of the Fourth of July Parade at Market Street. This 1.3 mile parade around The Woodlands features marching bands, fire engines, clowns and more! The real party starts at 6 p.m. at Town Green Park where the 21st Annual Red, Hot and Blue Festival will get the whole town rocking with great food, live entertainment and various activities. (Learn more)

Fireworks show – The fireworks show starts at 9:30 p.m. and can be seen from Town Green Park, Hughes Landing, Waterway Square, Rob Fleming Park and Northshore Park.

For more annual events around Houston, click here.