The Fourth of July is the highlight of the summer season across the nation. The kids are out of school, parents are out of work and our nation comes together to celebrate its independence. Much like any other holiday, it’s an opportunity for us to kick back and enjoy the day with family and friends.
Whether you’re planning a barbecue, a day at the beach or attending one of the area’s great Independence Day celebrations, plan to leave the fireworks to the professionals. Although the holiday attracts the sparkles and explosions of celebration, it can be a recipe for disaster when in the hands of amateurs who don’t take proper precautions.
Once again, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office will be enforcing its ban on illegal fireworks, and for good reason. In addition to many injuries that come from setting off your own fireworks, the injuries caused to others can have dire consequences. This ban is especially important in our equestrian areas, where many animals are injured each year after being spooked by fireworks.
When you add in fireworks that don’t work properly, children getting hold of them and all the other dangers that can occur, it’s clear that the best way to enjoy the day responsibly and take in some beautiful fireworks is to look to the skies for the professional displays.
As always, residents of the western communities have many options for a day of family fun, followed by magnificent fireworks displays. We recommend you check out the events and leave the fireworks — and perhaps even the barbecuing, music and entertainment — to the professionals. Because nothing says freedom like a free party.
In Wellington, the day begins with a patriotic pool party at the Wellington Aquatics Complex, featuring reduced admission for children and adults. The fun continues at Village Park from 6 to 9:30 p.m. with inflatables, face painting, a petting zoo, food, pony rides and more. The night will explode with fireworks beginning at 9:15 p.m. For more info., visit www.wellingtonfl.gov.
Royal Palm Beach kicks the day off with a kids fishing tournament beginning at 6:30 a.m. at Lakeside Challenger Park. The celebration then moves to the wonderful new Royal Palm Beach Commons Park for the Star Spangled Spectacular. The event kicks off at 1 p.m. with the Kids Fun Zone and live entertainment, food trucks, vendors, a cornhole tournament, a volleyball tournament, kayak race and more. The night concludes with a patriotic display of fireworks beginning at 9 p.m. For more info., visit www.royalpalmbeach.com.
Happy Independence Day to all from your friends at the Town-Crier!
