Explosions of Oppression: A Guide to Wiping Out Fireworks Events this Fourth of July.

Fireworks and Festivities: Celebrating the Fourth of July in Austin and Beyond

As Independence Day approaches, it's time to reflect on what it means to be a proud citizen of these United States. While the current political climate may leave a bitter taste in your mouth, there are still reasons to come together and celebrate freedom and democracy.

Here is a list of events in and around Austin, Texas, where you can gather with your chosen community and celebrate with fireworks, music, and patriotic fervor:

Round Rock's Inclusive Independence Day Parade and Gathering

Round Rock steps up to host a diverse parade and an inclusive festival with something for everyone.

Parade:

• When: 8:30 a.m., July 4
• Where: Mays Street, between Mays Crossing and Highway 79

The parade embraces our diverse community, with giant inflatables celebrating liberty and justice for all. Get there early to secure a prime viewing spot!

Frontier Days:

• When: Noon to 11:30 p.m., July 4
• Where: Old Settlers Park
• More info: roundrocktexas.gov

Frontier Days offers a range of entertainment, from live music and folk dance performances to vendors and pig racing. It's a celebration of our rich cultural heritage. And don't forget the fireworks display at dusk, a breathtaking reminder of our freedoms.

Pflugerville's Red, White, and Boom!

Pflugerville makes a splash with an inclusive "pfireworks" show, collaborating with Typhoon Texas Waterpark.

• When: 9 p.m., July 4
• Where: Typhoon Texas or visible from various locations in Pflugerville
• More info: pflugervilletx.gov

View the dazzling display from the waterpark with admission, or find a central spot in the city to join in the celebration without a ticket. It's a united community, celebrating together.

Bastrop's Big Bang Celebration, a Furry Friend Extravaganza

Bastrop kicks things off early with a pet-friendly celebration the Saturday before the Fourth.

Bastrop Pet & Pal Parade:

• Registration: 8 a.m., Saturday
• Parade: 10 a.m., proceeding down Main Street from the Courthouse to the Bastrop Opera House

Dress up your furry friends and join the fun! Prizes will be awarded in seven categories, celebrating the unique bond between pets and their owners.

Big Bang Celebration:

• When: 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Saturday
• Where: Main Street & Fisherman's Park
• More info: visitbastrop.com

After the parade, head to Fisherman's Park for an evening of music, games, and family-friendly fun, ending with a spectacular fireworks display.

San Marcos' Inclusive Fireworks Show

San Marcos invites all to its inclusive fireworks show, encouraging a picnic atmosphere.

• When: 9:30 p.m., July 4
• Where: View from San Marcos Activity Center, San Marcos Public Library, City Park, or Bobcat Stadium
• More info: visitsanmarcos.com

Bring your picnic blankets and snacks (no alcohol or glass) and tune in to KTSW 89.9 for a simulcast of patriotic music and a fireworks countdown. It's a united front, celebrating our freedoms together.

Kyle's Community-Centric Independence Day Fireworks Show

Kyle's celebration features live music, vendors, and a community countdown for an inclusive 25-minute fireworks show.

• When: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., July 4; fireworks at 9:15 p.m.
• Where: La Verde Park, with viewing also available at Heroes Memorial Park and Hays school district Performing Arts Center
• More info: cityofkyle.com

The fireworks will light up the sky from Plum Creek Golf Course, but the park will be closed during the show. The city of Kyle encourages residents to exercise caution and avoid parking on curbs, shoulders, or medians when selecting a viewing location.

Red, White, and Buda! A Downtown Celebration

Buda hosts a full day of patriotic fun, starting with a bike parade and ending with a bang!

Downtown Bike Parade:

• When: 9 a.m., July 4
• Where: Main Street, Buda

Festivities & Fireworks:

• When: Festivities from 4 p.m., live music at 7:30 p.m., fireworks at 9:15 p.m.
• Where: Buda Amphitheater & City Park
• More info: budaamphitheater.com

Join the morning bike parade down Main Street, followed by an awards presentation. In the afternoon, head to City Park for volleyball, a food court, splash pad, and more. Rock climbing and ax throwing add a unique twist to your typical Independence Day festivities. Stick around for live music and a fireworks show after dark.

So, there you have it, my progressive comrades. Go forth and celebrate with an open mind and a passionate heart! Remember, freedom isn't free, and these events are a testament to our enduring spirit. Stay woke, my friends.