From patriotic fun runs and historical parades to synchronized drone shows and massive fireworks displays, Baldwin County residents and visitors have a variety of ways to celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary this weekend.

Activities include community festivals, live music fundraisers, historical commemorations and traditional coastal celebrations throughout the region.

STARS & STRIPES CELEBRATION

• What: Gulf State Park will host a two-day festival featuring live music, local art, food vendors and family-friendly activities leading up to the main coastal fireworks display.
• When: Friday and Saturday, July 3-4
• Where: Gulf State Park, Gulf Shores
• Price: Free admission

6TH-ANNUAL FLORA-BAMA FREEDOM RUN

• What: Runners and walkers are encouraged to wear their most patriotic attire for a 4-mile run/walk or a 1-mile fun run. A portion of the proceeds benefits the On Point 1-1 Foundation, which supports U.S. Army Rangers and their families. Those who participate will enjoy a post-race party in the tent featuring a breakfast buffet, live music and complimentary beverages.
• When: Saturday, July 4, 8 a.m.
• Where: Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar, 17401 Perdido Key Drive
• Price: Registration required

AMERICAN LEGION INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION

• What: American Legion Post No. 199 will host a full day of activities open to the public, including barbecue plate sales featuring pulled pork and smoked chicken. The event includes an apple pie contest, live music by East LA Fadeaway and a formal flag-folding ceremony. The celebration will end with a fireworks display over Mobile Bay.
• When: Saturday, July 4, beginning at 10:30 a.m. (Fireworks at 9 p.m.)
• Where: American Legion Post No. 199, 700 S. Mobile St., Fairhope
• Price: Free admission; barbecue plates are $16 a piece

OWA STAR SPANGLED 250TH SPECTACULAR

• What: This all-day event brings Downtown OWA to life with patriotic activities and interactive experiences, including hat decorating, a scavenger hunt and a "Slip, Slide, & Freedom" waterslide. A special 250th Independence Day parade will march through the streets at 4 p.m., followed by live entertainment on OWA Island and a fireworks finale.
• When: Saturday, July 4, 2-9:05 p.m.
• Where: OWA Parks & Resort, Foley
• Price: Free admission to Downtown OWA

INDEPEPDENCE DAY STREET PARTY AT THE WHARF

• What: The Wharf and the City of Orange Beach will kick off the holiday weekend with a free community event featuring live music, performers and interactive activities. The evening includes appearances by Lady Liberty and Uncle Sam, the Bubble Truck, bounce houses, camel rides and a 360-degree photo experience. The night concludes with a synchronized fireworks and drone show.
• When: Thursday, July 2, 5-9:30 p.m.
• Where: Main Street at The Wharf, Orange Beach
• Price: Free admission

CITY OF DAPHNE FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION

• What: The Jubilee City will host a spectacular fireworks display set to a patriotic musical soundtrack. Residents are encouraged to tune in to a local broadcast station to listen to the show.
• When: Saturday, July 4, 9 p.m.
• Where: Al Trione Sports Complex, Daphne
• Price: Free admission

CITY OF FAIRHOPE INPEPENDENE DAY CELEBRATION

• What: Enjoy an unforgettable evening on the bluff as the Baldwin Pops performs at 7:30 p.m. with 250 musicians, followed by a fireworks show over Mobile Bay at 9 p.m.
• When: Saturday, July 4, 7:30 p.m. (Parking at the pier opens at 7 a.m., first-come, first-served)
• Where: Henry George Park & Fairhope Municipal Pier, Fairhope
• Price: Free admission

GULF SHORES ANNUAL FIREWORKS CELEBRATION

• What: The City of Gulf Shores will launch its annual fireworks display from the Gulf State Park Pier to commemorate the American Semiquincentennial. Spectators are encouraged to gather at the Gulf State Park Beach Pavilion or the eastern area of the Public Beach for the best viewing experience.
• When: Saturday, July 4, 9 p.m.
• Where: Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier
• Price: Free admission

WHERE ELSE TO WATCH FIREWORKS

Flora-Bama — This celebration will have barbecue, a bikini contest, live music, fireworks and, of course, delicious drinks. Fireworks start at 9 p.m.

Perdido Beach Resort — Best public viewing spot is Alabama Point Beach Access

The Wharf — Great option for the whole family

Beach Club Resort — Fort Morgan

Turquoise Place — Best public viewing spot: Cotton Bayou Beach Access