5 Free Fourth of July Celebrations Worth the Short Drive From Texarkana

The Fourth of July is coming up this Wednesday. How will you be celebrating the holiday? Whether you plan on staying home with family or taking a little road trip to watch some fireworks, I've found some places nearby that will most definitely be well worth the drive.

Let's take a look at some great firework shows within a 2 hour radius from Texarkana.

July 4 - Fireworks on Lake Hamilton - Hot Springs

One of Hot Springs most popular lakes Fireworks on Lake Hamilton will start at 9:30PM on the east side of Hwy 7 at the first bridge off Hwy 7. Fireworks will be fired off from barges in the middle of the lake. Seen this firework show many times and it's never disappointing. The reflection off the water is simply beautiful. Free to watch by boat or car, just get their early for best viewing.

July 3 - Spa Blast at Oaklawn

Oaklawn Park has become a hot spot for watching a huge fireworks display presented by Budweiser. Fireworks will be shot over the infield of the track with a free concert from Led Zepagain a Led Zeppelin tribute band. Activities for kids include a gigantic kids zone, petting zoo and misting tent to stay cool. Gates open at 5PM with FREE admission.

July 4 - Fireworks Over Harbor - Lake Ouachita

Mountain Harbor Resort on beautiful Lake Ouachita is the place for an all day 4th of July celebration. From a homegrown flag raising ceremony with kids, a Patriotic parade featuring Jeeps, UTVs, golf carts and more with lots of candy, and the biggest fireworks display over the lake at 9:30PM. Free admission.

July 4 - Lake DeGray Island Festival - Arkadelphia, Ark.

Celebrate the 4th of July with your family with lots of games for all ages including the Fourth Annual Freedom 5K Fun Run, water relays, watermelon eating contest to the underwater treasure hunt. In addition, there will be plenty of great food and great vieing areas for the fireworks show. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket.

July - 4  10th Annual Independence Day Festival - Shreveport/Bossier

Festival Plaza on the banks of the Red River is the place to celebrate America's birthday on July 4th. This free event will include lots of family fun events like a candied apple eating contest, patriotic karaoke, life jacket giveaway, a steak cook-off and live music from various local bands and Montgomery Gentry hits the stage at 8:05PM.  Then get ready for one big fireworks show at 9:20PM. Independence Day Festival begins from noon until 11PM.

Have a happy and safe 4th of July and Happy Birthday America!