Nobody does the fourth as big as Jacksonville. So, if you are thinking about leaving town, you may want to reconsider. There are a plethora of events offered this upcoming weekend to enjoy, including the usual fireworks and beach bike shenanigans — alongside several unique holiday celebrations. 

4th of July Fireworks Show
Obviously, you can’t celebrate July 4 without a fun fireworks show. They’re a great option for families hoping to ring in the holiday with a bang, with locations offered all over town. This year, Downtown Jacksonville, Ed Austin Regional Park, the Avenues Mall, St. Johns Town Center, FSCJ North Campus and Trinity Baptist Church will all host fireworks celebrations. Of course, the main event is in Downtown Jacksonville, where residents can enjoy pre-celebration entertainment, including a concert, inflatable ax throwing, food trucks and more. Starting at 9:45 p.m. Multiple locations; stayhappening.com //@stufftodoinjacksonville

Seaside Slingshots
Have you ever noticed the low-riding three-wheeled vehicles that seem to multiply during holidays or events? They are called Seaside Slingshots, and they are available for rent. They have an exotic look and offer “one of the most prestigious experiences in the industry.” Seaside Slingshots expects there will be a lot of business for July 4, since many Jacksonvillians cross over the bridge for the beachside. Seaside Slingshots: 2421 St Johns Bluff Rd. S, Suite 119, Jacksonville, FL; seasideslingshots.com // @seasideslingshots

#FrayLifeTip: If you rent one of these, they partner with Landshark Bar & Grill and Roundbird Coffee Shop to offer discounts on products.

JAX Cooking Studio Treats
Well before the fireworks begin, you can turn up the heat in the kitchen with some July 4baking at JAX Cooking Studio. The sweet treats include Independence Day-themed sugar cookie cutouts, classic strawberry shortcake, firecracker white chocolate dipped strawberries, and red, white, and blueberry cheesecake. You can start the baking at 2 p.m., treat yourself to the goodies when the class is done at 4:30 p.m., and then hit the town for evening fireworks. 2-4:30 p.m. JAX Cooking Studio: 14035 Beach Blvd. Jacksonville, FL; jaxcookingstudio.com // @jaxcookingstudio 

Night Hike
The 4th of July Night Hike to the fireworks is a unique opportunity to stroll down the Northbank Riverwalk, which runs alongside the St. Johns River, towards Downtown Jacksonville. The fireworks start at 9:45 p.m., and the three-mile walk should begin around 8:30 p.m. They recommend bringing your own lights or glow sticks, but there will also be a lighted path for the entire scenic route. 8:30 p.m.  Riverside Arts Market: 715 Riverside Ave. Jacksonville, FL; evensi.us // @riversideartsmarket

Autobahn Indoor Speedway
While it’s not a typical July 4 event, Autobahn Indoor Speedway is offering All You Can Race packages for locals eager for an adventurous holiday experience. The $60 per-person special is only available three times a year. If your idea of a great fourth is speeding around a raceway, dash over to the Autobahn. 6-10 p.m. $60. Autobahn Indoor Speedway: 6601 Executive Park Ct. N, Jacksonville, FL; autobahnspeed.com // @autobahn_jax

Celebration 5K
For those looking to get their sweat on before the festivities begin, consider running the Celebration 5K at 1st Place Sports. After the race, there will be bananas, bagels and watermelon to eat, as well as prize drawings. All finishers will receive medals and moisture-wicking shirts. If not up for the length of a 5K, there is also an option to run the 1-mile course. Starting at 7:30 a.m. $10-$35. 1st Place Sports: 3931 Baymeadows Rd. Jacksonville, FL. 1stplacesports.com // @1stplacesports

Jacksonville Beach gets crazy on the fourth, with so many bike riders and house parties, that traffic is stopped all along First Street. Whether you plan to brave the beachside craziness or are looking for something different, there are plenty of holiday celebration options for you and your friends.