Happy Fourth of July!

Staying in Gainesville for the Fourth of July? There’s plenty to do in or around town, from firework sightings to concerts, to a lazy day at the springs.

The Day Before:

• Lounge Around: Celebrate Independence Day a little early today with Fanfares & Fireworks. All you’ll need are a blanket, basket filled with snacks and drinks, and maybe even a friend, while you take in the live band and fireworks. This Gainesville tradition will take place at 7pm on the lawn in front of the recently remodeled Bandshell at Flavet Field (on UF’s campus).

Independence Day:

• Morning Cardio: Get your heart rate up with a morning run on July 4th. At 8am, the 32nd 3-mile Melon Run will take place at Westside Park.
• Fun in the Sun: Spend the day in the sun at one of Gainesville’s many springs (perhaps Ginnie Springs?), barbecuing and floating down the rivers.
• Comical Relief: Haven’t seen Shear Madness at the Hippodrome State Theatre yet? Well, turns out July 4th is the perfect day to see it: The ticket price will be reduced to $15 (they’re normally $30).
• Jam Out: See Off With Their Heads, The Fakeboys, Stressface and Jealous Animals at The Atlantic, starting at 5pm.
• Enjoy the View: Enjoy the spectacular sight of fireworks popping off into the night sky at the Hal Brady Recreation Complex in Alachua, starting at 9am.

—Alexis Patterson, CT