The big IF—will rain zap July 4 cookouts and fireworks in Jacksonville?
We spend holidays like July 4 and Memorial Day here at home. We swim, eat and sometimes go to a fireworks display.
The National Weather Service forecast for Wednesday, July 4, currently calls for scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms.
I told my younger daughter this morning July 4 weather in the South is always iffy. Even if the day dawns brightly, there’s always a chance for one of our famous Jacksonville popup showers. The rain was so loud last night it woke me up several times.
Nevertheless, we plan a cookout. The one thing I have relented on involves the menu. Now we plan something that won’t be a disaster if we have to cook it indoors. We tend to swim, eat and enjoy music on this holiday. Sometimes we take in a public fireworks display.
The City of Jacksonville always has a great pyrotechnic show—this year’s Skyblast Fireworks show starts at 9:45 p.m. Fireworks will be shot from barges; this increases the security factor. I really enjoy the city displays, but you have to get there early so you can park, and then leaving is a definite boggle. Downtown Jax is very compact, so when everyone leaves an event at the same time, it can get pretty congested. Plus you’re dodging pedestrians all over the place. So take your time and be patient. The fuss is worth it, though, because the displays are gorgeous. Read about the fireworks, parking, and picnic and other activities at the city Web site.
Jacksonville Beach also does a great display. I’ve never gone to that one, but most other events I’ve attended there draw more teen and college-age people.
As far as burn bans, as best I can tell, the ban in Flagler County is still in effect, according to the Florida Times Union.
Remember to be careful with fireworks if you do your own display. The Florida Department of Health says each year within the United States, more than 4,000 children under the age of 15 are treated in emergency rooms for injuries involving fireworks.
Above all, have a safe and happy July 4th as we celebrate our country’s birthday.
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