There are several events taking place in our community over the Fourth of July weekend; family-oriented events planned
By David M. Udoff
Sun Times
Come celebrate Independence Day with a tradition of fireworks, apple pie and watermelon. Local cities will hold firework displays at night while other cities celebrate during the day with barbecues and activities that all can enjoy. Guaranteed there will be plenty of “oohs and aahs” and best of all, these July Fourth events are free!
Everyone loves fireworks and pyrotechnically speaking, aerial displays are the most colorful, dramatic and choreographed. Industry advances in chemical mixing and matching are now producing fireworks that are more brilliant in color. Years ago, firework displays lasted one hour; today, 30 minutes is the average. Fireworks familiar to people are: Brocade, dahlia, peony, shell of shells and waterfalls.
CITY OFFERINGS
Aventura
Every year the city holds an All-American spectacular fireworks extravaganza with enough bursts and crackles to please. This is the 14th year that the city has done this event. Spectators can view the display from any location along Country Club
Drive; find a spot facing Turnberry Golf Course. Bring refreshments and snacks. It’s a great way to meet your neighbors and make new friends.
Date: July 4th
Time: 9:00 p.m.
More info: (305) 466-8930
Bal Harbour
For people who enjoy watching fireworks projected from a jetty over the ocean, come see this dazzling display. Bring blankets, chairs, food and beverages.
Date: July 4th
Where: North side of the beach, located at Collins Avenue and 103rd Street.
Time: 9:00 p.m.
More info: (305) 866-4633
Dania Beach
Looking for an alternative to fireworks, check out this cool Patriotic Laser Show. There will be food and enjoy live music with two bands featuring “Rough Shot” and “The Sugardaddys”
Date: July 4th
Where: Dania Beach Pier area
Time: Music 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Laser show 8:30 p.m.
More info: (954) 924-6800 ext. 3626
Free bus shuttles from Dania Jai-Alai starting at 1:30 p.m.
Hallandale Beach
The city celebrates America. No fireworks planned but that will not dampen the sprits. Bring the entire family; there will be children's activities including face painting, a bounce house, rock wall bungee jump, and a DJ will spin favorite tunes for all to enjoy. Vendors will have food and beverages for sale. Parking and shuttle service is available from North City Beach, Wal-Mart 2551 E. Hallandale Beach Boulevard, and the Memorial Outpatient Center 1750 E. Hallandale Beach Boulevard.
Date: July 4th
Where: South City Beach, A1A just south of Hallandale Beach Blvd.
Time: 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
More info: (954) 457-1452
Hollywood
This family patriotic tradition will offer something for everyone. There will be children's activities to be held at Charnow Park. A game master will host a dance competition, hula-hoops, sponge relay races and children can get temporary tattoos with patriotic themes. At the Broadwalk, plan for a full day and evening of music featuring different groups: Blues, Latin, Rock n’ Roll,
Date: July 4th
Where: Children’s activities Charnow Park, 300 Connecticut Street.
Music at Hollywood Beach Theatre at Johnson Street and Broadwalk
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Time: Fireworks 9:00 p.m.
More info and free shuttle: (954) 921-3404
North Miami
Spend an exciting Independence Day at Biscayne Bay. Bring your family and enjoy children's games, live entertainment and a spectacular fireworks show. Event is planned with music, food and more! Bring a blanket and lawn chairs.
Date: July 4th
Where: Florida International University Biscayne Bay Campus, overlooking Biscayne Bay, 3000 NE 151st Street.
Time: 6:00 p.m.
More info: (305) 895-9840
Pembroke Pines
Come to one of South Florida’s fastest growing cities. There will be live entertainment with “Magic City.” This group performs Chicago-style music with lots of brass horns trumpeting America’s birthday. Activities include games and children’s rides. Food for sale, hot dogs, hamburgers, fries, and drinks.
Date: July 4th
Where: Pines Recreation Center, 7400 Pines Blvd.
Time: 6:00 p.m. Fireworks display 9:00 p.m.
More info: 954-435-6525.
Sunny Isles Beach
No fireworks, but this fun-filled afternoon is planned with music, games and a special butterfly sculpture dedication ceremony. A game master dressed as Uncle Sam will entertain children and a DJ will be spinning tunes. This is a picturesque park with shade trees. Parking is available along the park and at St Mary Magdalen Church.
Date: July 4th
Where: Senator Gwen Margolis Park, 17815 North Bay Road.
Time: 9:30 a.m. until afternoon
More info: (305) 792-1706
Mardi Gras Gaming
Spend the Fourth of July at Mardi Gras Gaming all-day-fun. There will be live entertainment by “The Castaways,” a delicious BBQ with hot bourbon glazed ribs, chicken and hamburgers served at reasonable prices. Firework display held off the greyhound track contrasting a beautiful skyline.
Date: July 4th
Where: Mardi Gras Gaming, 831 N. Federal Highway,
Hallandale Beach.
Time: Music 7:00 p.m. to 12: 00 a.m. Fireworks 9:00 p.m.
More info: (954) 924-3200
Gulfstream Gaming
Watch a jackpot firework display off the racing track. Please note their event takes place on July 3rd. A special buffet is offered at the Ten Palms Restaurant along with music.
Date: July 3rd
Where: Gulfstream Park Racing and Casino, 901 S. Federal Highway, Hallandale Beach
Time: 9:15 p.m.
More info: (954) 457-6451.