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Best Fourth Of July Parties In DFW

The 4th of July in America means cookouts, time with family and friends and, of course, fireworks. There is something about the anticipation of sitting in the dark awaiting the spectacle of colorful lights that makes the overhead display such an awe-inspiring experience. There are so many places around the Dallas/Fort Worth area to spend the Fourth, and a lot more than just fireworks in store. To help you make your plans this year, we gathered a list of some of the best Fourth of July parties in DFW. For more places to celebrate Independence Day this year, you can read about these July 4th parties as well.

Southlake Stars & Stripes
Southlake Town Square
1256 Main St.
Southlake, TX 76092
(817) 748-8019
www.visitsouthlaketexas.com/stars-stripesDate: July 3, 2014

Southlake's Stars & Stripes festival includes an evening of fun for all ages. There will be a toddler zone, crafts for kids and a gaming truck to satisfy kids of any age. Uncle Sam will be walking around the festival, greeting visitors and posing for photos. Entertainment, which includes the Southlake Community Band and Derek Anthony, will be hosted on three different stages. Fireworks are scheduled for 9:30 p.m.

Plano All-American Fourth
Amphitheater at Oak Point
2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway
Plano, TX 75074
(972) 941-7000
www.plano.govDate: July 4, 2014Plano holds two events for the Fourth of July, including the Independence Day Parade and All-American Fourth. Both will happen on Friday, July 4 and have free admission. The parade begins at 9 a.m. at the Plano ISD Admin Building and follows its route north to Plano High School. The fireworks show runs 9:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. and there will be a simulcast airing on 97.5 KLAK. Picnic baskets are welcome and free parking is available at select locations.

Related: Best Place To Watch Fireworks In DFW

Lone Stars & Stripes
Lone Star Park
1000 Lone Star Parkway
Grand Prairie, TX 75050
(972) 263-7223
www.lonestarpark.comDates: July 4-5, 2014Lone Star Park will hold horse races Thursday through Saturday with special holiday events on Friday and Saturday. On Friday, the doors open early at 3 p.m. and the races begin at 5 p.m. There will be a petting zoo for kids and live music throughout the evening. There will be a fireworks display after the last race. Saturday, Justin Moore takes the stage after the conclusion of the races. Tickets are $5 before 8 p.m. and $20 after.
Fort Worth's Fourth
Panther Island Pavilion
395 Purcey St.
Fort Worth, TX 76102
(817) 698-0700
www.fortworthsfourth.comDate: July 4, 2014Taking advantage of the body of water that runs through the city, Fort Worth's fireworks for the 4th will be fired over the Trinity River. Fireworks start at 9:30 p.m. with additional activities starting at 2 p.m. earlier that afternoon. Bring chairs and blankets for the show, but come early for jet ski shows, tubing, live music and more. This event claims to have the biggest firework display in the North Texas, so visitors won't be disappointed.
The Lake Cities 4th of July
Lake Dallas City Park
N. Shady Shores Road and E. Hundley Drive
Lake Dallas, TX 75065
(940) 497-2226
www.lakedallas.com/fourthofjulyDate: July 4, 2014Not to be outdone by bigger cities, Lake Dallas, Corinth, Hickory Creek and Shady Shores join forces annually for a memorable 4th of July celebration. Activities begin at 9 a.m. with a parade and include carnival rides, games and live music throughout the day. If you're feeling competitive, you can enter the apple pie bake-off, talent show or watermelon contest. Fireworks are scheduled to start about 9:15 p.m. Admission is free.

Related: Best Sangria In DFW

Emilie DesJardins currently works in Dallas television and worked with KRLD Restaurant Week for several years before that. She is always trying new places around the Metroplex to find the best food and unique things to do. See her work at Examiner.com.
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