Fourth of July fireworks shows around New Orleans
The big picture: It's a busy weekend all around with Essence Fest also taking place across downtown.
Be smart: It's illegal for residents to shoot fireworks in Orleans Parish and most of Jefferson Parish.
Yes, but: The laws are rarely enforced.
Here are safety tips if you choose to light things up at home, plus expert tips to keep your dog calm during the show.
How it works: Parishes and tourism groups pay for large public fireworks shows every year, and leaders say this is the safest way to celebrate.
Here are the Independence Day celebrations in the region.
Happy 3rd of July (Thursday, July 3)
Goldring/Woldenberg Great Lawn in City Park from 6pm to 9:15pm.
The Marine Forces Reserve Band kicks things off with a performance at 6pm. Expect patriotic singalongs and appearances by Captain America and Wonder Woman. This year also has a new lounge area with shaded space and drinks for purchase.
Fireworks are at 9pm.
Blankets and chairs are encouraged. Beer, wine, soft drinks, snoballs and food from Chick-fil-A, La Cocinita and Tanjarine Kitchen will be available for sale. Details.
Uncle Sam Jam (Thursday, July 3)
Lafreniere Park in Metairie from 3-10pm.
This free festival features big musical acts, food vendors and a large fireworks show. No outside food or drinks are allowed.
Don McLean, Shenandoah and Payton Smith will perform, along with Bottomland, the Victory Belles and the Marine Forces Reserve Brass Band.
Free parking is available at the Shrine on Airline with shuttle service. It costs $20 to park inside Lafreniere Park. You can also opt for a $100 VIP pass, which includes upgraded parking and private bathrooms for four people. Details.
Independence Day Celebration (Thursday, July 3)
St. Charles hosts its annual event at the West Bank Bridge Park.
Gates open at 6pm, and fireworks are at 9pm. Food and drinks will be available for purchase, but alcohol won't be sold. You can bring an ice chest and folding chairs. Details.
Light Up the Lake (Friday, July 4)
Mandeville hosts a patriotic tribute with live music and fireworks over Lake Pontchartrain.
A 3pm parade gets the party started, followed by performances by Amanda Shaw and The Boogie Men. There will also be food trucks and a kids tent. Fireworks are set for 8:45pm. Details.
Go 4th on the River (Friday, July 4)
9pm in downtown New Orleans along the riverfront.
The fireworks are visible from the Hilton New Orleans Riverside to Crescent Park in Bywater to Algiers Point on the West Bank.
CNN plans to broadcast part of the fireworks show nationally. They'll be streamed live on WWL.com, too.
The General Roy S. Kelly fireboat from the Port of New Orleans will do its patriotic water show at 6:30pm followed by the 9pm fireworks. Details.
St. Bernard Salutes America (Thursday, July 4)
Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center grounds from 5:30pm to 10pm.
This free festival in Chalmette has live music, food vendors and a 9:30pm fireworks show.
Headliners are The Band Epic and Adam Pearce from "The Voice." Details.
Other Fourth of July events
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