Houston, the Fourth of July is almost here, and it’s time to start making your plans for the long weekend. Grab the kids, break out the red, white and blue, and get ready to celebrate our nation’s independence with a host of activities that get the whole family into the holiday spirit. Here are our five top picks for the Fourth of July in Houston this year.

Freedom Over Texas Featuring Darius Rucker
http://www.visithoustontexas.com/event/freedom-over-texas-featuring-darius-rucker/41652/

This is one of the biggest events you can expect in the Houston area this Independence Day. Thousands will be headed to Eleanor Tinsley Park along Buffalo Bayou on the 4th to enjoy country music and a massive fireworks display. Darius Rucker, of Hootie and The Blowfish fame, is now a chart-topping country superstar, and he’ll be the headliner. The lineup also includes Houston favorites The Suffers, country singer Brooke Eden, Cowboy Mouth, Rusted Root, and The John Evans Band. Tickets are $8 in advance or $10 the day of the event.

Houston Symphony Star Spangled Salute At The Miller Theatre
http://www.houstonsymphony.org/tickets/production/detail?id=7063

If you’re more classical than country, the Houston Symphony has you covered. They’ve got an evening of American music planned, billed as “patriotic, toe-tapping music.” This is an annual tradition for the symphony. You won’t want to miss their performance of the 1812 Overture, featuring booming cannons just as Tchaikovsky ordered. Free tickets are available in the covered area in front of the stage, and if they run out, open seating will still be available on the hill.

 
George Bush Presidential Library And Museum “I Love America” Fourth Of July Celebration
http://bush41.org/events-listing

There’s a whole slate of activities for the 4th planned at the library “Bush 41.” Check out the library to learn more about the life and legacy of George W. Bush. Afterward, stay to enjoy a host of activities including performances by the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra and Xchange, a kid’s zone with a bounce house and games, concessions including roast corn and watermelon, and, of course, a fireworks display.

Museum Of Fine Arts Houston 4th Of July Celebration At Bayou Bend

http://www.mfah.org/calendar/july-4-celebration-bayou-bend/11432
Bayou Bend, the former mansion and gardens of Houstonite and philanthropist Ima Hogg, now houses a world-class collection of art, including ceramics, paintings, and silverware. They’ve got an “extravaganza of Americana” planned. See historical performances, enjoy crafting activities, have a slice of birthday cake, and sign the gigantic replica Declaration of Independence for yourself. At around 3:20, they’ll do a formal reading of the Declaration. Admission is free.

 
Children’s Museum of Houston July 4th “Kidependence” Day
http://www.cmhouston.org/event/kidpendence-day

This one’s all about the little ones. The Children’s Museum of Houston is presenting what they’re cleverly calling a “Kidependence Day” on the 4th. The flag will be presented by a Boy Scout color guard, along with the Pledge of Allegiance and singing of the National Anthem. Afterward, kids will get the chance to meet and take pictures with Uncle Sam and the Statue of Liberty. Attendees have an opportunity to march with the High Steppers Brass Band.

These are just a few of the many awesome events for the holiday weekend. If this list doesn’t suit your fancy, Visit Houston and Houston On The Cheap are great resources that list dozens of other activities. Have a great holiday H-town!