Happy 4th of July from The Daily Meaux!

No need to pop off your own fireworks and set your neighbor's grass ablaze when there are so many spectacular free fireworks shows going on around the area. Besides, it's illegal to pop firecrackers in the Lafayette City limits anyway so why not check out a few of the great things you and the family can enjoy this Independence Day. Have a great holiday!

Photo by: mandj98

Red, White & Boom! Parc International, Downtown Lafayette
The Acadiana Symphony Orchestra presents the annual "Red, White & Boom!" Music by the Acadiana Symphony with a special performance by Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys. Concert promises fun for everyone, plus food, fireworks and many other fun, family activities. So pack up your lawn chairs and bring the whole family to Parc International.
Free. Gates open at 6 p.m.
337-232-4277, www.acadianasymphony.org

FreedomFest: Parc Sans Souci, Downtown Lafayette
Fun jumps, waterslides, train ride, food and drinks. Free hot dogs while they last and one of the largest fireworks shows ever to light up the Lafayette sky! Patriotic dress up contest begins at 7:15. Categories: 0-3 yrs / 4-12 yrs / 13 yrs & up. Bring chairs, umbrellas and blankets. No outside food, drinks, ice chests or pets allowed. Enjoy live music on the stage starting at 6 p.m. featuring Full Circle, Lafayette's Bayou Boys and Cupid.
$10 all you can jump and dry slide. $5 per climb on rock wall. $5 all you can waterslide. $2 train ride. Starts at 4 p.m. Fireworks at 10 p.m. 337-235-2471. www.freedomfest09.com

Erath 4th of July Celebration: Downtown Erath
From the land of my Mama's people. Parade, water fights, fais-do-do, pageants, carnival rides, food and a large fireworks display.
Free. 337-937-5585, www.erath4.com

New Iberia July 4th Parade: Bouligny Plaza, New Iberia
Parade at 7 p.m., Ceremony at 7:30 p.m., Fireworks at dusk.
337-365-1428, www.iberiatravel.com

4th of July Celebration on the Cajun Prairie: Eunice Recreation Complex
Free family celebration on the Prairie. Fireworks at 9 p.m.
337-457-7389, www.eunice-la.com

4th of July Celebration on the River: Nall Park, Krotz Springs
Entertainment provided by JC Melancon and band from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Patriotic music to follow and fireworks display at dusk. Hot dogs and cokes will be sold.
Free. 6:30 p.m. - until. 337-566-2322, www.cajuntravel.com

JulyFete: Crowley
Fireworks and Live Music. Free. www.crowley-la.com