Can't decide what to do this year for the Fourth of July in Pinellas, Pasco, or Hillsborough Counties?  Don't know where to find the best fireworks displays?  Don't want to get stuck in hours of "Amatuer Night" traffic once the show's over? 

(Let's not push it--I'll try for two out of three...the only time I went anywhere other than MY OWN ROOF for Independence Day, there were lines for hours and miles...except when it was pouring rain, which may be the case this year.)

Here are my Top Ten picks for THE BIG BANG 2008:

1. ON THE WATER--hands down, the BEST place to watch the show is from the water, either in the Vinoy Basin, where you can see both Tampa, Clearwater, and St. Pete shows, or around John's Pass/Treasure Island area.  The bonus: NO traffic...not on the road, anyway--but it's on a Friday night this year, so who needs to worry about WORK the next day?!  If you see me, just smile and wave--I'll be the one in the pink bikini...
2. UP ON THE ROOF--or as close as you can get to it--think DOWNTOWN areas--St. Pete or Tampa, tall buildings facing the water, also any of the hotels lining Gulf Drive in Treasure Island or even Clearwater Beach.  How about dinner at Armani's on the Causeway. or at The Pier in St. Pete?
3. Up, Up and AWAY!  I must say, it's been a dream of mine for years to be in an aircraft close to the fireworks on the Fourth--why not plan it?  Hmmm...I do know one guy with a Piper...
4. Don't know any pilots?  What about the roof at Tampa Airport?  I haven't done that for fireworks yet, but it's got a great view...
5. How about starting at The Fourth of July Cafe on N. Howard, and then heading down to Channelside's Freedom Fest?  Granted, Channelside will be one of the most crowded festivities, but the fireworks are also some of the best around, and you can go to the Florida Aquarium for late-entry at only $10. -OR-
6. Another "see it from the water" idea:  A Sunset Cruise on The Bay Spirit (the Aquarium's catamaran), or one of the other Charter companies (like my friends at Windsong) in the area.
7. Want something homier?  Safety Harbor always has a great fireworks display behind the Safety Harbor Spa, at the Marina, and proceeds benefit the Safety Harbor Scholarship Fund.
8. The City of Gulfport also plans its annual celebration, including entertainment and a sandcastle contest--so here's a good choice to make a day of it!
9. Largo's show was saved by corporate sponsors (as was St. Pete, Clearwater, and Tarpon Springs), and all are good local choices with entertainment and fireworks.  And last, but not least...
10. RIGHT HERE--see a show from the comfort of your own computer!

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