Residents and visitors to the Austin area for the 2009 July 4th weekend have lots of options for fun, sun and fireworks along the banks of the Colorado River, Lake Travis and Lady Bird Lake.

Austin Symphony Concert & Fireworks - July 4
Held at Auditorium Shores adjacent to downtown, this is the largest 4th of July event in the city, with a yearly attendance of some 100,000. The performance begins right around sunset and includes a rousing rendition of the "1812 Overture" (including canon fire from actual 75-millimeter Howitzers) before the fireworks show starts at 9:30pm. Free seating is available throughout the park and surrounding area.

Volente Beach Fireworks Show - July 4
Spend the day splashing in the pools and riding the water slides at Volente Beach Waterpark, then stay late for the live music and fireworks. The show is free with park admission purchased before 8pm. Entry after 8pm is $5.

Lakeway Music, Food & Fireworks - July 4
The south side of Lake Travis has festivities all day, starting with a parade at 8:30am, a pageant at 10:30am and a celebration with food vendors, live music and entertainment starting at 6pm. The fireworks show starts at 9:30pm and everything wraps up at 10pm.

Carlos 'N Charlie's Fireworks - July 3
The party at this rowdy Lake Travis restaurant and bar is one day before the actual holiday. Expect live music, exotic cocktails and a 30-minute fireworks show over the lake, starting at around 9:30pm on July 3.