Festivities here begin at 6 p.m. and include performances by family friendly bands, including headliners Party on the Moon, aka "Atlanta’s favorite party band." Fireworks slated for 9:40 p.m.

The evening begins at Centennial Olympic Park at 6 p.m. Unfortunately, no coolers allowed. But the fireworks spectacular is promoted as the largest in the Southeast. For homebodies, the show will also be broadcasted on TV.

What's more American than a laser Elvis performing "An American Trilogy"? A laser Elvis performing "An American Trilogy" followed by Independence Day fireworks! Shows are actually scheduled for Thursday through Sunday, and you'll have to pay for parking. The "Rockin the Rock" bonanza featuring American Authors and Rachel Platten kicks off Thursday.

The oldest and largest Independence Day blowout in South Fulton County — East Point's "Salute to the Red, White & Blue" — actually ignites on Wednesday with a summer carnival. But Saturday holds the real treat, beginning at about 9:30 p.m. — "South Fulton County's largest Pryo Digital Fireworks display synchronized to a musical score!"

OK, so it's not technically free because you've got to buy a ticket to the game, but it really is a legitimate fireworks display — much longer than the typical Friday night offering and typically punctuated with That Awesome Opera Guy singing "God Bless America." Game time against the Phillies is 7:15 p.m. with fireworks to follow.

Saturday brings fireworks to Sandy Springs and a promise to "illuminate the skies above the King and Queen buildings." It all begins at 9 a.m. with "the metro area’s largest July 4th Parade" followed by music at 7 p.m. and boom-boom later.

Up in Chamblee, Independence Day events begin at 5 p.m. with concessions, a bike parade and train rides. There's also a CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT and live music. And fireworks.

OTP, anyone? Marietta's venerable "Fourth in the Park" celebration will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday with a "Freedom Parade" and continue all day long with a festival, music and fireworks.