See & Do - Big bang June 28 2006

Hangin’ out at the family barbecue and setting off little sparklers might be the easiest way to celebrate INDEPENDENCE DAY. But why would you want to stay home when there are so many spectacular fireworks displays throughout the metro area? Here are a few sure to get you into the patriotic mood.

Kick the holiday off early at Stone Mountain Park, where the FANTASTIC FOURTH CELEBRATION starts JULY 1. Each day through July 4, a special patriotic laser show precedes a fireworks display so big you can see it from downtown. On July 4, the big sparklers are shot from both the bottom and the top of the mountain. $8 vehicle fee. 9:30 p.m. U.S. Highway 78, Exit 8. 770-498-5690. www.stonemountainpark.com.

The 47-year-old 4TH OF JULY AT LENOX SQUARE is a yearly favorite for more than just its status as the largest fireworks display in the Southeast. Live music begins at 5 p.m. with jazz by Melanie Massell and continues through the evening with orchestras, marching bands and more. Fireworks begin at 9:40 p.m. 3393 Peachtree Road. 404-233-6767. www.simon.com.

Downtown Atlanta gets in on the action each year with a festival and fireworks display at Centennial Olympic Park. But for a twist on the celebration, visit the Westin Peachtree Plaza’s Sun Dial bar and restaurant for PICNIC IN THE PODS, which includes a picnic-style dinner and a bird’s-eye-view of downtown’s fireworks. $17.50-$35. 210 Peachtree St. 8-11 p.m. 404-589-7506. www.ticketalternative.com.

If you aren’t exactly into wearing red, white and blue on your sleeve, then dress your bike in the colors instead and ride it over to the PIED PIPER PARADE in downtown Decatur, which’ll accept you on skateboard, wagon and foot, too. After the walk, relax on the square with live music by the Callanwolde Concert Band and fireworks. Free. 5:30 p.m. 404-371-9583. www.decaturga.com.