Get Out: Fourth of July Events

The Fourth of July is just around the corner, which means barbecues, hanging out with family and friends and, of course, fireworks.

Patch has compiled a listing of activities in the Midlands celebrating Independence Day.

June 30

Celebrate Your Liberty on the Lake

Liberty Tap Room is kicking off the Fourth of July weekend at its future site on Lake Murray. Enjoy the water, food, drinks and live entertainment this Saturday. Music will be provided by Pantasia Steele Drum Band and Parrot Heads in Paradise.

Fireworks on Lake Murray

The Spirit of Lake Murray is offering a dinner cruise this Saturday. Watch the fireworks while cruising Lake Murray and enjoy a catered dinner and entertainment from Red Farley. There's only a few spots left. Reserve your spot by calling 803-730-3044.

Lake Murray Country Annual Fourth of July Celebration and Annual Boat Parade 

Starting at noon from Bomb Island, view the annual boat parade led by the Southern Patriot. Fireworks will launch from both Spence and Dreher Islands.

July 1

25th Annual Carolina Celebration of Liberty

Celebrate with First Baptist Church at its 25th Carolina Celebration of Liberty event this Sunday. Presentations will be made by the Ft. Jackson 282nd Army Band and military color guards. Music will feature the First Baptist Choir and Orchestra. There's also an indoor fireworks show. Ticket office is open from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Call 803-217-3250 to reserve your free ticket.

July 4

Head to  to hear the Lake Murray Symphony Orchestra perform a selection of music including patriotic music, Broadway songs, and sing-alongs. Enjoy a picnic in the park with food and drink available for purchase from Artisan Bone-In Barbeque, Ed's Bartending, and Kona Ice. Games for kids will begin at 7 p.m. and the musical performance begins at 8:30 p.m.

Blowfish Baseball and Big Bang Fireworks Show

If you like sports, specifically baseball, the Columbia Blowfish is playing against the Florence Freedom at 7:05 p.m. at the Capital City Stadium. After the game, fans can enjoy the Big Bang Fireworks Show. Tickets are buy one, get one free if you tell them at the box office you're there to "Chill Out in Columbia." 

Congaree Paddle

Looking to do something adventurous? Try a canoe ride down the Congaree River. The River Runner Outdoor Center is offering three two-hour canoe rides. Don't forget to bring some water and sunscreen.

Freedom Festival at Village at Sandhil 

The Village at Sandhill invites the public to its annual Freedom Festival featuring country music star Ronnie McDowell. McDowell performs at 7 p.m. The festival also features fireworks and carnival rides. 

Salute to the Nation

Ft. Jackson will have its Salute to the Nation event at Hilton Field. Gates open at 4 p.m. The event, which begins at 8 p.m., features a cannon salute and music by the 282nd Army band. A fireworks show will start around 10 p.m. Visitors should enter through Gates 2 (Forest Drive at Strom Thurmond Boulevard), Gate 4 (Percival Road at Boyden Arbor Road) or Gate 5 (Leesburg Road). You must have a valid driver's license, proof of insurance and registration. Lawn chairs and blankets are permitted. No coolers or pets. 

Lexington County Peach Festival

Celebrate Independence Day at the Lexington County Peach Festival in Gilbert at the community park. Take the family out for a full day of arts and crafts, rides, food, a parade, music, a fireworks show and more. The festival begins at 8:30 a.m.

July 7

Freedom Festival and Summer Concert Series

Finlay Park will be packed with family-friendly activities during the Freedom Festival, which starts at 1 p.m. The festival features carnival rides, a petting zoo, pony and camel rides, and a variety of food options. At 8 p.m., enjoy music from The Maxx followed by a Big Bang Fireworks Show.