Fireworks have been a part of Independence Day celebrations since they were used to celebrate the first anniversary of our nation’s independence in 1777 in Philadelphia.  But, of course, fireworks aren’t the only thing synonymous with 4th of July celebrations.  Food is too—namely grilling and desserts.  Here’s a look at the 4th of July fireworks displays in the Memphis area this weekend as well as a couple of links to sites chocked full of tasty recipes that will wow your family and friends.

Fireworks

July 3
Bartlett and Collierville get a day’s jump on the 4th’s festivities.  Bartlett will host its “Star Spangled Fireworks Extravaganza” from 6:30 – 10:00 p.m. on the lawn of the Bartlett Performing Arts & Conference Center and Appling Middle School (Hwy. 70 and Appling Road).  There will be a little something for everyone:  a car show, face painting, games for children, concessions, and more.  The Bartlett Community Concert Band and John Angotti will provide musical entertainment.  Fireworks will begin at 9:30.

Held at H.W. Cox Park, Collierville’s 24th annual Independence Day Celebration will feature food, games, and the music of the Soulsations.  The town will also be giving away 10,000 glow stick flags.  The event will kick off at 6:00 with fireworks starting at 9:30.

Not all 4th of July Celebrations entail sitting on lawn chairs.  Join nearly 3,000 runners at the 11th annual Firecracker 5K Run/Walk benefitting St. Jude (http://www.firecracker5k.com/).  And it’s not just about the running.  The post-race activities include a dance, a pool party, and live music from the Soul Shockers.  Go to the website to register.

July 4
Head downtown to W.C. Handy Park and Beale St. for the Red, White, and Blues, the biggest 4th of July celebration in the city.  Elvis tribute artist Michael Hoover will kick off the event at 5:00 by singing “The Star Spangled Banner.”  A host of great food and music will follow, including Big Jerry, Gary Hardy and Memphis 2, and Mercury Blvd, leading to the fantastic fireworks display over Tom Lee Park beginning at 9:30.

Check out the fireworks from atop the Peabody at the Fireworks on the 4th Rooftop Party.  Running from 6:00-11:00, the party, hosted by Q107.5’s Manny and Riley, will include a summer picnic buffet with drinks from MilllerCoors Memphis and music from Memphis’ own Ingram Hill, who are touring in support of their second major label release, Cold in California.  Tickets for the party are $20/person and you must be at least 21 to attend.  For more information call 901-529-4000.

If partying downtown isn’t your thing, you can celebrate the 4th at Germantown’s Family Fourth Celebration in Municipal Park.  At 9:00 a.m. the Lions Club will host a fishing rodeo.  At 5:00 p.m. the evening’s activities will get underway with games, a moon bounce, a petting zoo, and live music.  Fireworks begin at 9:10.  For more information (maybe you’re wondering what exactly a fishing rodeo is) call 901-757-7376.

Food
Looking to put a twist on your traditional 4th of July spread, check out these websites for some mouth-watering recipes:

Taste of Home
Eating Well
Food Network
cdkitchen