Tomorrow is the Fourth of July. As a kid, it was always one of my favorite holidays—the fireworks, having my dad home from work, backyard cookouts with plenty of desserts. What’s not to love?

As an adult, I still love the 4th, but I also think what a hassle to fight all the traffic to see a few fireworks. And it’s so hot outside. Houston is having a long, hot summer. Maybe I can have the backyard cookout in September…

I do have a friend who’s booked a hotel downtown, within walking distance of the fireworks. She and her boyfriend plan to order room service, walk to the fireworks, enjoy the show, and then walk back. Sounds like a plan to me.

So what are your plans? And are any of you lucky enough to live in one of these places? According to an article I read, these are American’s Best 4th of July Celebrations.

1. National Independence Day Parade – Washington, D.C.

What: The National Independence Day Parade takes place in the nation’s capital, the most fitting place to celebrate the 4th of July. Bands, giant balloons, floats, equestrian teams, celebrities and dignitaries all participate in the parade for quite a spectacle.

Where: On Constitution Avenue from 7th to 17th Street.

When: The parade starts at 11:45 am on July 4th.

Tip: After the parade, spend the day celebrating and watch the impressive nighttime fireworks display at the National Mall.

2. Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Show – New York City

What: The Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Show is the nation’s largest and longest Independence Day pyrotechnic display. This year the fireworks show is returning to the Hudson River location, where it was originally created.

Where: The 26-minute display will be set off from six barges positioned between 24th and 50th Streets on the Hudson River.

When: The fireworks display will begin at 9 pm EST.

Tip: If you can’t make it to the Macy’s fireworks show, tune in to your local NBC station to catch the broadcast version. The on-air version also features a celebrity line-up and performances from top recording artists.

3. Boston Harborfest – Boston, MA
What: Boston Harborfest is a week packed with patriotic activities leading up to a big day of celebration for the 4th of July. Harborfest pays homage to the colonial and maritime history of the American Revolution with reenactments, historical tours and costume-filled festivities.

Where: Though events are spread throughout Boston’s historic center, the Harborfest website recommends starting your festivities at City Hall Plaza at One City Hall Square, Boston, MA 02201.

When: Harborfest 2009 runs from Tuesday, June 30th through Sunday, July 5th. On the 4th of July, the Flag Raising Ceremony and Parade takes place from 9 am – 10 am, and fireworks start at 9 pm.

Tip: July 1st is Children’s Day and July 5th is Chowderfest, where restaurants across Boston compete for the title of Boston’s Best Chowder.

4. Gridlock 4th of July at the Queen Mary – Long Beach, CA

What: Touted as California’s largest fireworks display, Gridlock at the Queen Mary is a day full of 4th of July festivities that end with a dramatic pyrotechnic show. During the day, enjoy live music from over 15 popular bands while exploring the Queen Mary from stem to stern.

When: July 4th, 2009, from 10 am until 10 pm. The fireworks show begins at 9 pm.

Where: The Queen Mary is located at 1126 Queen’s Highway, Long Beach, CA 90802.

Tip: If you get too tired to go home after all the festivities, you can book one of the Queen Mary’s original hotel staterooms for the night.

Whatever your plans, have a safe and happy 4th!