Time to light up the sky for the Fourth of July!  Which Southwest Louisiana towns are planning Independence Day celebrations?  

Lake Charles

Red, White, Blue 7 You -- Friday, July 4, 6 p.m.  Lake Charles Civic Center

The lakefront will be dazzled with color as the city's annual extravaganza starts with a parade at 6 p.m. from the Civic Center down to Lock Park on 7th St.  Anyone who wants to can join the parade with floats, golf carts, bikes, etc.  At 7:15 p.m., Paul Gonsoulin and John Guidroz will start rockin' the seawall, followed by the Lake Charles Community Band.  There will be face painting, balloons and food vendores.  While you can bring your blankets and lawn chairs, leave your ice chests at home.  For more information and parade entry forms call (337) 491-9159 or www.cityoflakecharles.com Fireworks begin at 9:15 p.m.

Jennings

Stars & Stripes Celebration -- Thursday, July 3, 4 p.m.  I-10 Louisiana Oil & Gas Park

The park will open at 4 p.m. with free activities for children, including fun jumps and waterslides.  Taking the stage at 4:30 p.m. is Muzic Unlimited, followed by Jamie Bergeron & The Kickin' Cajuns at 7 p.m.  It's a family event, so no ice chests, alcohol or pets.  For more information, call (337) 821-5532.  Admission is $3 for adults and is free for those under 12. Fireworks begin at 9 p.m.

DeRidder

Downtown 4th of July -- Friday, July 4, late afternoon -- Washington St.

DeRidder is bringing back their free festival with free burgers, watermelon and drinks.  Also, free games for the kids, including a tug of war, pie-eating contest. For more information, call (337) 462-8900 Fireworks begin at dark.

Elton

Friday, July 3, 5 p.m. Town Park

Elton's festival will feature free admission, with non-profit agencies running the local food and vendor booths, so any money you spend there will go toward worthy causes.  Face painting and novelty vendors will be available, with waterslides, fun jumps and pony rides for children.  No food or ice chests allowed.  For more information, call (337) 584-2312.  Fireworks start at 9 p.m.

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