By Kat Walsh
Whether it’s a few sparklers in your own backyard or one of the many communitywide patriotic celebrations, there’s nothing like fireworks and fun on the Fourth.
Here’s how to get your patriotic fix:
Parris Island Independence Day
Where: Parris Island, Peatross Parade Deck
When: Monday, July 4. Gates open at 5 p.m.; Parris Island Band performs at 6:30 p.m.; fireworks start at approximately 9:15 p.m.
This family-friendly event is free and open to the public. It will feature a kid’s fun zone, the Parris Island Band performing patriotic music and an incredible fireworks celebration.
Food and beverages (alcohol and non-alcohol) as well as patriotic glow sticks, bracelets and headbands will be available for purchase.
Tips: Visitors will be allowed on base after 3 p.m. Follow the signs and use the right-most lane when approaching the main gate area. All people entering the base are required to present a form
of identification.
What to bring/what to leave at home: No weapons are allowed on base (including concealed weapon permit holders).
Additionally, no coolers or outside food/drink will be allowed (exceptions for baby formula and milk), pets (except service animals) or outside fireworks are allowed.
Port Royal 2016 Independence Day
Where: The Sands of Port Royal
When: Monday, July 4. Begins at 5 p.m., fireworks will be at 9 p.m.
Hosted by the town of Port Royal and the Historic Port Royal Foundation, the 2016 Independence Day celebration will include food booths, refreshments, vendors, the Melody Makers, a DJ, face painting, water slide, bounce houses and more.
Tips: There is free public parking at The Sands and along city streets. The fireworks will begin immediately after the Parris Island fireworks display, which can also be seen from The Sands. Another good spot to watch is at The Bluff on Bay Street, which allows you to watch both the Port Royal and Parris Island fireworks.
What to bring/what to leave at home: Bring your own lawn chairs and bug spray is recommended. No coolers, golf carts or pets will be allowed.
Salute from the Shore VII
When: Monday, July 4
Where: Along the shores of coastal South Carolina. A full schedule was not available at press time, but can be found at salutefromtheshore.org as the event gets closer.
Catch the wave of patriotism during Salute from the Shore VII on the Fourth of July.
The flyover of vintage military aircraft and F-16s from the South Carolina Air National Guard’s 169th Fighter Wing at McEntire Joint National Guard Base will take off just north of Myrtle Beach and fly along the coast, concluding around 1:30 p.m. over the May River Sandbar in Bluffton.
Top photo: Fourth of July celebrations are scheduled at a variety of places throughout the community. Photo by Bob Sofaly.
