Crowds enjoy a great view along the edge of the water during the (News-Sentinel file photo)fireworks display at last year's Fourth of July festivities at Lodi Lake.

Fired-up for the Fourth

Options abound for area Fourth of July festivities, fun

The Fourth of July is just a few days away, and locals will have a variety of all-day activities they can attend.

The city of Lodi is hosting a Fourth of July celebration beginning at 7 a.m. and ending with the fireworks finale. The beach area and boat rentals will be available after 10 a.m.

Admission to the Parks and Recreation activities are free of charge.

People visiting Lodi Lake may also attend the American Celebration hosted by the World of Wonders Science Museum.

Activities will include old-fashioned Fourth of July games such as a pie-eating contest, a watermelon-eating contest, and three-legged races, said Sally Snyde, World of Wonders president.

"We wanted to do the old-fashioned theme because we are missing what the Fourth of July is about," Snyde said.

The World of Wonders activities will cost $5 for visitors 13 and older.

Turner Road from Mills Avenue to Ham Lane will be closed from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. except for permit and handicapped parking. Visitors may bring canned beverages, but no glass bottles or alcohol.

The following is a quick run down of other Fourth of July celebrations in Lodi, Galt and the region:

Lodi

The Lodi Parks and Recreation Department will have activities including swimming, games, live music, and vendors. The World Of Wonders Science Museum will have activities on the North side of the lake. Admission for the Word of Wonders is $5 for 13 and up.

Where: Lodi Lake, 1101 W. Turner Road.

When: 7 a.m. until end of show, fireworks begin around 9:15 p.m.

For more information, visit www.wowsciencemuseum.org/events or call 327-6369.

Galt

This year, the city of Galt will be hosting the 2008 fireworks program. The event is free of charge and open to the public.

Where: Veterans Soccer Field, 900 Caroline Ave.

When: 5:30 p.m. until end of show, fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.

For more information, visit www.ci.galt.ca.us or call 366-7180.

Stockton

The city of Stockton will hold its annual July 4 celebration and fireworks spectacular. The day's events will include a veteran's parade, food, entertainment and a fireworks show.

Where: Weber Point Event Center, 221 N. Center St.

When: 5 p.m., until end of show. Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.

For more information, visit www.stocktongov.com or call 937-8099.

Sacramento

The city of Sacramento will host its annual Fourth of July celebration at Cal Expo. Events will include California State Fair talent show auditions, live music and food.

Where: Cal Expo fairgrounds

When: 6 p.m. until the end of the show. Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.

For more information, visit www.calexpo.com/html/4th_of_july.asp or call (916) 274-0424.

Elk Grove

The city of Elk Grove will host the 12th annual Salute to the Red White and Blue Fourth of July celebration with live music, food, vendors and activities.

Where: Elk Grove Regional Park, 9950 Elk Grove-Florin Road

When: 6 a.m. to end of show, fireworks begin at 9:45 p.m.

For more information, visit www.elkgroveca.com or call (916) 691-3760.

Contact Natalie Flynn at natalief@lodinews.com