Independence Day, commonly known as Fourth of July, is a national holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 declaring independence from Great Britain. Similar to any U.S. American holiday, we have traditions to uphold like fireworks, parades, barbecues, concerts, picnics and other events.

This year my friends and I will be watching fireworks on the beach while enjoying beer and fruity drinks. Below I’ve listed some events going on around the Bay this weekend for Fourth of July. Get out and celebrate your Independence!

Saturday, July 4^th

Hillsborough

Bill Heard Chevrolet Fourth of July Celebration
Plant City Stadium, 1810 East Park Road, Plant City
Gates open at 5 p.m., parking lot opens at 4 p.m. Plan to arrive early, as seating is limited. Admission and kids’ activities are free. Parking is $3. Concession foods will be for sale. There will be stage entertainment and a spectacular fireworks display.

Fourth of July Celebration at Channelside
615 Channelside Drive, Tampa
Activities begin in the courtyard at 2 p.m. and live entertainment starts at 6 p.m. DJ’s will spin tunes before and after the 9 p.m. fireworks show.

Brandon Blast
459 Brandon Town Center

The third annual Brandon Blast 4th of July celebration features entertainment and special sales throughout the mall. Fireworks display will begin at 9 p.m.

Pinellas

Clearwater Celebrates America
Coachman Park, 301 Drew St., Clearwater
Gates open at 4 p.m. Highlight of the evening is Clearwater’s fireworks show. No alcohol, umbrellas, canopies, pets or personal fireworks allowed. Concessions available.

Downtown St. Petersburg Fourth of July Celebration
Straub & Vinoy Parks and The Pier
Clear Channel Radio sponsors live entertainment, family activities beginning at 1 p.m. Family fun and concerts at The Pier. Fireworks above Spa Beach are scheduled to begin at 9 p.m.

Fourth of July and Largo Centennial Celebration
Largo Central Park, Largo

Activities include music by soul band “The Black Honkeys,” concessions and a fantastic fireworks display! Bring your chairs, blankets, and family for the festivities. Event starts at 6 p.m. and ends at 10 p.m.

Gulfport Fourth of July Celebration
Shore and Beach boulevards as well as Gulfport Beach.
Festivities begin at 10 am and the day includes a sandcastle contest, games, live music, a children’s pageant, a parade and, of course, fireworks beginning at 9 p.m.

Safety Harbor Festival & Fireworks
Safety Harbor Marina and Bayshore Boulevard, Safety Harbor
Event starts at 5 p.m with fireworks at 9 p.m. Concessions, live entertainment, food and a children’s area.

St. Pete Beach Fourth of July Celebration
Gulf Boulevard & 50th Avenue
Features a fabulous fireworks display.

Need something patriotic to wear?

Tampa Bay-based fashion designer Bebe Ziegler, has launched her Patriotic line for Ice It. Her pride for our country and her U.S. Air Force Vietnam Veteran father inspired her patriotic line. Symbolic images like peace signs, the American flag, a bald eagle and the colors red, white and blue can be found in her collection.

A portion of sales from Ziegler’s Patriotic line will benefit the non-profit organization, Wounded Warrior Project, which honors U.S. Service Members who have been wounded or injured. Bebe Ziegler’s Patriotic line will be available through Veteran’s Day in November 2009. Check out the collection below and for more information, check out www.iceitbybebez.com