July 4th in Austin

This year, Independence Day has the potential to light up the summertime with bursts color and excitement. As the patriotic holiday approaches, Austinites can choose between staying home — perhaps a backyard barbecue with friends and family — or gather for public celebrations and festivities. So, don your red, white and blue and get ready to see the best fireworks this side of Texas. From movies to music and a whole lot of corn dogs, here’s what we’ve got on our radar for the Fourth of July:

Hill Country Galleria’s Independence Day Festival

July 4, 4 to 10 p.m.

The annual Independence Day Festival is making its return to the Hill Country Galleria. Easy for all ages, the festival will have kids’ rides, more than 75 artisan vendors and a local lineup of live music on the Central Plaza including Fastball, Vallejo and The Deer. The evening will culminate in a colorful fireworks display, so make sure to bring a blanket or chair!

H-E-B Austin Symphony 4th of July Concert & Fireworks

July 4, 8 p.m.

Austin’s iconic 4th of July Concert and Fireworks are back, hosted by the Austin Symphony Orchestra. “Mile-high” fireworks will soar above Vic Mathias Shores as onlookers are treated to patriotic songs, arts vendors and food trucks. As always, the event is free and open to the public. Arrive early to find your perfect spot.

Round Rock Express Independence Day Celebration

July 4, 6:05 p.m.

Grab your jersey and head to Dell Diamond for a celebration of America’s favorite pastime. Presented by United Heritage Credit Union, Round Rock Express will face off against the Sugar Land Skeeters at 6:05 p.m. before the largest postgame fireworks show of the season. The first 7,000 fans will get mini-American flags to wave, and kids can enjoy free train rides outside the ballpark before the baseball game.

Fireworks at Dreamland

July 4, 10 p.m.

If you’re looking for your fireworks with a side of outdoor recreation, Dreamland is the perfect destination. Boasting 64 acres of sculptures, mini-golf, pickle ball and more, the Dripping Springs venue will be kicking-off their inaugural Fourth of July with all-day food and drink specials before launching a vibrant fireworks display at 10 p.m.

Bob Schneider Independence Bash & Fireworks

July 3, 6 p.m.

The holiday just wouldn’t be the same without Bob Schneider taking the stage. Luckily, the guitar-wielding hometown hero is back and headed to Dripping Springs’ Nutty Brown Amphitheatre for his annual fireworks show. Ahead of the release of his new album, In A Roomful of Blood with a Sleeping Tiger, Schneider will also be joined by special guests Lex Land and Danny Malone.

Live Fireworks Show and Movie

July 3 & 4, 6 p.m.

Dinner and a movie are getting an upgrade this year. Located in Buda, the spacious Doc’s Drive-In is hosting two nights of live music and impressive fireworks before screening all-American classics like The Sandlot and Independence Day. Pack your car with friends and family and grab your spot before they’re gone!

VIP Dinner & Fireworks Show

July 2, 8 p.m.

Beachside Billy’s and Volente Beach are welcoming visitors back to the resort for another incredible fireworks show over Lake Travis. With the DJ spinning tunes and a cold drink in hand, there’s plenty of ways to catch the action — whether spending the whole day at the waterpark or arriving just for the fireworks. There’s also an option for a more exclusive VIP Dinner starting at 6 p.m., when guests can dine on a buffet of brisket, smoked turkey, jalapeño cheddar sausage and more.

Geraldine’s Red, White + Blues

July 1st to 4th

Geraldine’s is ushering in July with four days of festive bites, tasty cocktails and live performances by Blues artists, including Jo James, Blake Whitmire, Vin Mott Blues Band and Paul Val. Situated at the top of Rainey Street’s Hotel Van Zandt, the hotspot comes complete with a rooftop bar, an intimate indoor stage and stunning views of downtown Austin.

4th of July Corn Dog Eating Contest

July 4, 2 p.m.

Put on your stretchy pants and head to Black Sheep Lodge on South Lamar for the ultimate corn dog eating competition. For $20 you can prove your chops by downing as many corn dogs as humanly possible in eight minutes — plus a chance at the $250 cash prize. Better yet? Everyone who participates gets a commemorative T-shirt no matter how many or few corndogs you can swallow. Plus, a portion of the proceeds from the day will go towards a local dog charity. To enter, email events@blacksheeplodge.com.