Light Up the Lake
Scintillating fireworks shot off from Dock 20 will ignite the sky above Lake Erie in an array of colors this Independence Day. Explore the West Bank of the Flats by visiting the Music Box Supper Club or Jacob’s Pavilion at Nautica Boardwalk. If you're farther away from downtown, you can also grab a seat at Edgewater Park, Kirtland Park and more. Free, July 4 sundown, various locations, 216-736-7799, downtowncleveland.com
Red, White and Boom at Margaritaville
Come down to Jimmy Buffett’s iconic restaurant chain for its first ever Independence Day celebration complete with steel drum performances, giveaways, door prizes and Jimmy’s signature cheeseburgers. The gorgeous views from the rooftop deck will be illuminated by the crackling fireworks flooding the cityscape as you sit back with a crisp margarita and the company of friends and family. $100, July 4 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, 1150 Front Ave., 216-615-8855, margaritavillecleveland.com
Cleveland Orchestra’s Salute to America
The beloved Cleveland Orchestra will curate a familiar soundtrack this Wednesday that the entire family can enjoy. Kick back, relax and celebrate under the pavilion or on the lawn as classical favorites like “The Star-Spangled Banner,” “Overture: The Year of 1812” and other numbers are performed with fireworks sparkling in beyond the trees. Free-$55, July 4 8 p.m., Blossom Music Center, 1145 West Steels Corners Rd, 216-231-111, clevelandorchestra.com
Red, White and Blu Plate Celebration
Guitarist and Akron native Dave Hammer will lead the 2nd annual Independence Day event at the Blue Jazz+ club. Along with the club’s musical combination of Akron flair and Southern fare, there will be an extensive homage to the food and culture of New Orleans, St. Louis, Memphis and Nashville. There will be two sets for those who plan on coming after fireworks. Free, July 4 8:30 p.m. & 10:30 p.m., BLU Jazz+, 47 East Market Street, Akron, 330-252-1190, blujazzakron.com
Play: CLE
If your kids can't wait until sundown for fun, let them get a little energy out here first. The park is filled to the brim with activities such as ziplines, rope courses, climbing walls and more. This year’s celebration of our nation’s birthday will be one the entire family won’t forget when everyone tackles Play: CLE’s Ninja Warrior course or parkour playground. If you come to the park dressed as Uncle Sam or Lady Liberty, you’ll receive free admission for the day. Free-$110, July 4 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Play: CLE, 38535 Chester Road, Avon, 440-695-3565, playcle.com
