Many opportunities to celebrate America this weekend

Fireworks are reflected off the surface of Lake Honor at College of the Ozarks Honor America celebration. (Photo by Phillip Thomas)

Independence Day is just around the corner, and it brings many opportunities to celebrate.

An important part of the 4th of July is the fireworks, and there are many fireworks displays set for this weekend, for your enjoyment.

On Thursday, July 2, Kimberling City holds their annual Fireburst Celebration. Fireworks will be launched near the Kimberling City Bridge and can be viewed from the shore of the lake or aboard a boat on Table Rock Lake. Fireworks begin at dusk.

On Friday, July 3, enjoy Liberty Light Up at The Branson Landing. This year's event features a free concert beginning at 6:30 with Damsel. The Dirty Saints take the stage at 8 p.m. Fireworks follow the evening concert. The 17th Annual Liberty Light Up is sure to be bigger and better than ever.  

On Saturday, July 4, there are many opportunities to celebrate. Big Cedar invites their guests to participate in their annual patriotic picnic, complete with games, crafts, concerts and live entertainment. Big Cedar provides one of the area's largest fireworks displays that evening. Overnight guests of Big Cedar can enjoy the amazing display from the resort, while the public can view the fireworks from Top of the Rock.

The city of Rockaway Beach will celebrate Independence Day with food trucks, live entertainment, children's activities and fun for all ages on Saturday, July 4. The evening is capped off with a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Taneycomo.

In nearby Shell Knob, they are celebrating 50 years of fireworks with their annual Fire and Thunder display. Fireworks are launched from near the Shell Knob Bridge and can be viewed from the water or the land. The event begins at dusk on Saturday night, July 4.

Hollister's Annual July 4th activities begin at 6 p.m. in the Chad A. Fuqua Memorial Park on Saturday. Celebrate with food, family activities and fun for all ages on Saturday evening. The fireworks, the area's most longstanding Independence Day tradition, will begin at dusk.

Chateau on the Lake will celebrate Independence Day on Sunday, July 5. The day includes a BBQ meal and holiday activities for the resort's guests, followed by fireworks for the public to enjoy.

Many area resorts will offer special celebrations and even fireworks for their guests' enjoyment, and a number of Branson shows will also offer special Independence Day performances to their schedules this weekend.

To all of our readers, have a safe and Happy 4th of July. Happy 250th Birthday, America!