It is that time of year again where the fireworks will spark across the sky to celebrate our nation's freedom. People will be decked out in the most patriotic attire they can find in red, white, and blue. Whether Independence Day is a favorite holiday of yours or not, there are many festivities to take part in the Twin Cities this coming holiday weekend. Some people will choose to spend time up north, whereas others will be down in the Twin Cities. Here are some ideas on how to celebrate:

St. Paul

St. Anthony Park neighborhood

8 am: Fun Run
11 am: Parade

Minneapolis

Red, White & Boom

For more information about the whole weekend visit their website.

6:30 am: Red, White & Boom! TC Half Marathon, Relay, and 5K Begins
6-10 pm: Live Music and Family Activities
10 pm: Fireworks

The fireworks over downtown Minneapolis will be choreographed to a mix of Prince music provided by The Current.

The Stone Arch Bridge is a breathtaking view to watch fireworks take over the sky. This is the absolute best place to see the fireworks. Watching fireworks on the Stone Arch Bridge is like watching history, as the bridge is a link to the rich past of Minneapolis. You’ll be right above the Mississippi River and right below the action. Get here early, though; as this is the best spot, it fills up quick.

Lake Calhoun: This is a great place to spend the day, with the family friendly beaches and amazing views of the fireworks from downtown. The lake offers Grilling, Fishing, Wind Surfing, Swimming, Sailing, Canoeing, Kayaking, Biking and Volleyball.

10 pm: Fireworks

Twins Game: Games will be occurring at Target Field all weekend. The 4th of July is Military Discount day with the game starting at 1:10 p.m.

Shakopee

Canterbury Park: There is a fireworks display coordinated to music at dusk.

Address: 1100 Canterbury Road, Shakopee, MN 55379

Free Hot Dogs!

12:45 pm: First Post
After Race 5: Annual hot Dog Eating Contest
After Race 8: Wiener Dog Warm Up Race

Valleyfair: The park will be open from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. July 4th, with fireworks at 9:50 p.m.

Address: One Valleyfair Drive, Shakopee. Admission is $19.99 - $42.99, and parking is $12.

Stillwater

For more information about the whole weekend visit their website

6:15 pm: Two bands will be playing in Lowell Park area
7 pm - 9 pm: St. Croiz Jazz conert in the bandshell
10 pm: Firework Show

Woodbury

Address: Bielenberg Sports Center, 4125 Radio Drive Woodbury, MN 55125

Schedule of Events
6 - 10 pm food sales
7 - 10 pm Brat Pack Radio
10 pm Fireworks

Cottage Grove

This is an annual Fourth of July event that occurs in Kingston Park.

Address: Kingston Park, 9195 75th Street S. Cottage Grove, MN 55016

6:30 pm: family-friendly events and a cookout
Dusk: Firework show

Afton

For more information about the whole weekend visit their website.

12 pm: Afton Main Street Parade
10 am - 3 pm: Free Trolly Rides
Shuttle ride from Lakeland Plaza

Maplewood

Light It Up

Address: Hazelwood Park, 1663 County road C, Maplewood, MN 55109

4 pm - 10 pm: Live music, food and fireworks.

Wayzata

Lake Minnetonka:

For information

7:30 am: Firecracker Runs (1 mile, 5K & 10K)
9:00 am: Sand Sculpture Contest
11:00 am: Water Street Kids' Parade and Popsicle Social
4:00 pm: Brothers & Others Band Performance
5:30 pm: FireFly Forest Band Performance
7:30 pm: Ornery Bastards Band Performance
9:55 pm: The National Anthem performed by Kate Raddatz
Dusk: "The best fireworks on Lake Minnetonka."

Apple Valley

50th annual Freedom Days celebration begins June 27 and ends July 4. More details about the holiday weekend visit the website.

Address: Johnny Cake Ridge Park East, 5800 140th St. W. Apple Valley, MN 55124

11 am - 11pm: Carnival
1 pm: Parade
6 pm - 10pm: Pre-Firework show
10 pm: Fireworks

Forest Lake

More details about the whole holiday weekend schedule visit the website.

10 pm: Fireworks

Have a safe holiday weekend with your family and friends. Happy Independence Day America!