In just a short amount of time, you'll have your chance to see all the explosions your heart could desire. No, we're not talking about the Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen: Next week is the Fourth of July, and we want to help you get the most bang out of your patriotic buck. Here's a list of dos and don'ts.
Do get close to the center of the action. It's one thing to enjoy the occasional colored spark peeking over the neighboring houses two miles away. But at least once in your life, you should get close enough to see the facial hair on the people operating the launchers. If one of the charges misfires and ends up as a dome instead of a sphere, you'll want to be able to say you were there.
Don't park close to the center of the action. A lot of places that put on fireworks only have one or two ways in and out. You're much better off leaving your car at a spot with multiple exit options and enjoying a nice long walk toward the action. Plus, by the time you get back, the worst of the traffic will have died down. Better yet: Bring your bike.
Do ooh and ahh. There's nothing wrong with enjoying an impressive pyrotechnical display. And frankly, even an unimpressive one has its charms. Savor the moment.
Don't put on a verbal pyrotechnical display of your own. There are lots of little kids around you. They should be scared by the noise and explosions, not by your stories of how you once ______ a _______ with a _________ under some ______. Save those tales for the expository portions of Transformers.
Do bring your own snacks and drinks. Yes, you can probably buy them there, but a seven-dollar Kit Kat and a fifteen-dollar Aquafina don't really add that much to the experience.
Don't bring your own fireworks. Depending on your local laws, you can probably get away with a box of sparklers, but the authorities won't appreciate it if you try to start the show early by launching an eight-inch shell over the heads of the waiting spectators.
Do consider staying off the official grounds entirely. If you can swing a balcony or the top level of a multi-story parking garage, or even a roof (stay safe!), you might even be able to see multiple displays all around your metro area (hint: start by watching to the East). It's like a multiplex without walls.
Don't watch fireworks on TV. That's just lame.
Got big plans for the Fourth? Light up the comments.
By: Jeff_Alexander
Topics: Life
Tags: july 4th, holidays, fireworks
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