Charleston loves to celebrate the 4^th of July with plenty of fireworks. What could be a more perfect celebration of our independence than spending the day on the beach with friends and family followed by spectacular island fireworks?

Independence Day events happening in and around Charleston:

Patriot’s Point 4^th of July Celebration: America’s National Carrier Aviation Museum draws tens of thousands every July 4 to listen to live bands, eat plenty of good food, and of course, watch the incredible fireworks display launched from the deck of the Yorktown. For 2011, Patriots Point has spent more than ever before on fireworks, so this year’s celebration will top them all. Admission is free for the fireworks, entertainment, and much-loved Kidz Zone.

Directions: Take I-26 to downtown Charleston, turn on Highway 17 North, go across the Cooper River Bridge, and follow the signs to Patriots Point.

Summerville’s Red, White, and Blue on the Green: Downtown Summerville comes alive with its Red, White, and Blue on the Green on Saturday, July 3. Hosted by Summerville D.R.E.A.M. (Downtown Restoration, Enhancement, and Management), the festival includes a dunk tank, face painting, crafts, and for $3, unlimited games. Bad Moon Band will play, and all the usual food vendors will be selling their delicious dishes.

The highlight of the festival is the much-anticipated Uncle Sam and Miss Liberty Costume Contest and non-motorized parade around Hutchinson Square. Everyone joins in with their wagons, bicycles, carriages, kids, animals . . . all decorated to celebrate the 4^th of July. Prizes include Best in Show, Uncle Sam, Miss Liberty, and Best Decorated Pet.

For more information, please call the Summerville D.R.E.A.M. office at 843-821-7260.

Directions: Take 1-26 West to Highway 17 South for about 4.5 miles to Hutchinson Square, the center of town.

Folly Beach 4^th of July Celebration: Enjoy an amazing fireworks display at Folly Beach at dark. Make it an all-day celebration and fish off the Edwin S. Taylor Fishing Pier, swim or stroll along the beach, or enjoy a delicious meal in one of our restaurants.

Directions: Take I-26 to downtown Charleston and turn on Highway 17 South to Highway 161 (Folly Road). Go to the end of Folly Road (about 15 minutes) to the beach.

What will you be doing for the Fourth of July?