Family-Friendly 4th of July Events in Lafayette, Louisiana

Later this week, we'll all celebrate America's independence with 4th of July events all across the region.

For many of us, those to-dos will include a lot of patriotic pride, perhaps some hot dogs and hamburgers on the grill, a little swimming pool action, or perhaps wrapping up the night with a great big ole fireworks display.

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If you don't feel like spending big money at your local fireworks stand, then how about you pack up the kids and head to one of the many Independence Day celebrations across Acadiana?

Here is a list of some of the big events we know about:

Wednesday, July 3

Youngsville Independence Day Celebration (Youngsville Sports Complex) 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm -- Kids activities, pop-up vendors, live music from The Rouge Krewe, Gino V, DJ RV, food & beverages, and a spectacular fireworks display. Free to attend.

Jennings Stars & Stripes 4th of July Celebration (Oil & Gas Park) 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm -- Music by The Eighties Experience at 6:00 pm. Food vendors, snow cones, face painting, and a fireworks show at 8:30 pm. Free to attend.

Blast on the Basin (Diesi's Lucky Capitol in Henderson) 6:00 pm - Midnight -- Live music from One Trick Pony from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm and JC Melancon (inside) from 9:00 pm to Midnight. Fireworks at dusk.

Thursday, July 4

Broussard Independence Day Festival (St. Julien Park) 5:00 pm - 9:30 pm -- 18th Annual Fireworks Show along with activities for the kids, a DJ, and live music. The fireworks begin at 9:00 pm. Free to attend.

Erath 4th of July Celebration (Downtown Erath) -- The entire celebration runs from June 30 through July 4 with carnival rides, live music, water fights, and culmination with the giant fireworks display over the Erath Skies at 9:00 pm on Independence Day.

Fireworks on the River (Nall Park, Krotz Springs) 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm -- Enjoy hot dogs, watermelons, and live music. Guests are welcome to bring ice chests, lawn chairs, and picnic baskets. Free to attend.

We will update this list as we receive information about other events. If you know of any other public 4th of July events and fireworks displays, please email the info to jude@973thedawg.com.

Places to Go Tubing in Louisiana

When it's summertime in Louisiana and you need to be outside, in the water is where it's at. And while our water isn't exactly crystal clear, it still is nice to take a dip in sometimes. Here are a few of the spots around the state where you can get in the water and enjoy a leisure tubing trip down a river or creek.

Gallery Credit: Jude Walker