July 4th fireworks

Celebrating the 4th of July in my Aunt Shirley's backyard was a once-a-year extravaganza complete with a barbecue, toasted marshmallows, lots of cousins and fireworks. Uncle Bob would hand out sparklers to all the kids and we would dance with them in the dark, preparing the night air for the fireworks that followed.Then he'd light the Smokey Joe and the Piccolo Petes and we would all shriek with a mixture of excitement and delight hiding behind our parents

.My love affair with fireworks continues. Although no longer enjoyed in the back yard, we've watched pyrotechnic displays in parks, at beaches, stadiums, baseball games, over bridges, on a barge, and at theme parks. It's always the same - when the lights go down, that same wonderful feeling of anticipation begins.

Kids-List has put together a nationwide directory of 4th of July fireworks celebrations around the country for you to enjoy. Celebrate!