When you hear the words ‘Fourth of July,’ aside from red, white and blue, fireworks may be the first thing that comes to mind. For some people there’s a positive association with fireworks, but for others, not so much.
Good news, enjoying fireworks is not a prerequisite for being patriotic. If you’ll be in the Houston area for Independence Day, there will be plenty of events celebrating the United States’ birthday that don’t involve pyrotechnics.
Here are some of the fireworks-free Fourth of July festivities happening in the Houston metro area on Thursday, July 4:
When: 2-5 p.m.
Where: 10855 Towne Lake Parkway, Cypress
Celebrate Independence Day at Towne Lake in Cypress. This free event will include live music, airbrush face painting, balloon artists, a photo backdrop, stilt walkers and more. After the celebration, you can choose from numerous restaurants to grab dinner. Visit The Boardwalk’s website for more information.
When: 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: 1500 Binz St., Houston
Head to Children’s Museum Houston for daytime Fourth of July festivities that are all about the fun and freedom of being a kid. The event activities include interactive science experiments, a confetti party with Captain America and Lady Liberty, storytime with Captain America and a science show. All ages are welcome at the museum’s event, but groups must include at least one child.
The event is free with general admission. Tickets are $19.95 for adults and children and $17.95 for seniors. Visit the museum’s website to purchase tickets and learn about some of the discount options, such as those for active military.
When: 12-3 p.m.
Where: 4500 Travis St., Houston
Show your patriotism by supporting some of our nation’s heroes. Houston Millennials, VFW Auxiliary Post 8790 and Cloudbreak Communities will be hosting a heartfelt meal providing at risk soldiers and veterans with hot dogs and hamburgers. By volunteering you will help these organizations in expressing gratitude and honoring the brave men and women that have fought for Americans’ freedom.
The hosts are requesting all volunteers to bring a pair of new socks to donate to heroes. RSVP on Eventbrite to reserve your volunteer spot for the Freedom Lunch.
When: 7-9 p.m.
Where: 2618 Broadway, Galveston
Enjoy a live performance by the Galveston Community Band at Moody Mansion. This free event will be in a different area of the island from where the Galveston beachside fireworks show will be held. Other exciting Independence Day events happening in Galveston include a parade and another music performance, both of which are also free.
Visit the Independence Day celebration page on Visit Galveston’s website for more information about the various events happening on the nation’s birthday.
When: 9-10:30 p.m.
Where: 2010 Waugh Drive, Houston
When: 1-4 p.m.
Where: 1070 Dallas St., Houston
Live out your red, white and bougie fantasy with a day spent poolside at an upscale hotel. If you’re down to splurge for a classy pool party, check out The Laura Hotel. Entry is free for hotel guests, while non-guests can purchase day passes for $75.
The event will feature cocktails; exclusive daybed cabanas for two, starting at $400; and a special Fourth of July Pool Platter for $24. If you’ll be staying at The Laura, you can extend your celebration with their Discover Houston package, which includes daily breakfast for two, complimentary access to the pool party, a $25 food and beverage credit and a late checkout at noon. Click here to book your cabana or day pass.
When: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Where: South Rice Ave. & Valerie St., Bellaire
If you’re looking for a family-friendly Fourth of July morning event, head to Bellaire for their parade and festival. The parade kicks off at 9 a.m. and will also include the Children’s Bike Parade. Both parades will end at South Rice Ave. and Linden St. Attendees can enjoy live music, food trucks and more on the Great Lawn in Loftin Park, beginning at about 9:30 a.m. The parades as well as the festival are all free to attend. For more information, call the Bellaire Recreation Center at (713) 662-8280, or visit the event page on the City of Bellaire’s website.
When: July 3 and 4, 10 a.m. to sunset
Where: 12600 Crystal View Blvd., Texas City
Does vibing for two days of non-stop live music played by rock tribute bands as you enjoy tropical drinks, delicious food and a breathtaking waterfront view sound like your vibe? If so, Freedom Rocks Music Festival at Lagoonfest is where you’ll want to be on July 3 and/or 4. Bring your whole family to surf, sail, paddle, sunbathe or whatever floats your boat, literally. Click here to purchase tickets online – $38 for people ages 14 and up and $20 for children ages 3-13.
