Fourth of July Events in Charleston

Just as there are countless different types of Americans, there are also no limits to the variety of ways to celebrate the nation's independence this Fourth of July.

Charleston, dubbed an All America City, which was a British target in the nation's fight for independence, serves as the perfect reminder of our nation's rich history, not to mention the ideal backdrop for patriotic festivities.

Whether it's time on the harbor, hotdogs, fireworks, music, beaches or just a little rest and relaxation you are looking for, there is a solution for everyone. Though the Patriots Point Fourth of July Blast (Page 13F) has been ranked one of the top five Independence Day celebrations by The New York Times, choosing where to celebrate may be difficult with following options on the picnic table.

Raise a glass (and the sails up the mast)

The Tanzanian Education Foundation will hold a 4th of July Booze Cruise on the Osprey, which will set sail from the Vickery's dock in Mount Pleasant at 4 p.m. Only 50 tickets are available at $85 a piece, and will cover all you can eat and drink (must be 21 or older to board the Osprey).

The harbor tour will start at Morris Island, sail to Pickney Castle to watch the fireworks. Also, Big Hair from Dub Island will play DJ. www.tanzanianeducationfoundation.org.

July 4, 1776

Middleton Place, the historic home of Arthur Middleton, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, will be hosting an entire weekend of activities that will bring visitors closer to the roots of the American Revolution.

Take a walk through war re-enactors' campsites, watch a military tactical demonstration or tour the house.

At 3 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday there will be formal reading of the Declaration of Independence too.

The activities are complementary with regular admission, $25 for adults. Children 7-15 get in free with a paid adult. www.middletonplace.org.

Declaration of IndepenDANCE

Want to get a head start on partying? The Town of Moncks Corner will hold a 4th of July Street Dance 8-11:30 p.m. Friday at the train depot, which will feature oldies, beach and popular music from The Custom 4 + 2 Band. The town's parade will be at 10 a.m. the following day on Main Street. www.townofmonckscorner.sc.gov.

"Old fashioned" Independence Day in Summerville

Red, White and Blue on the Green will be hosted by Summerville in its Town Square 4-7 p.m. Saturday and is touted as an "old fashioned" Independence Day Celebration.

Patriotic face painting, music and kids games will accent live contests, to include a watermelon eating contest, a seed spittin' contest, a water balloon tossing contest and even a hot dog eating contest. Summertime concessions will be served, if you have room after cramming down all those Coney dogs. www.summerville.sc.us.

Party in the Park

The city of North Charleston will host a celebration at Riverfront Park. Entrance, parking and children's carnival games and activities will be free. After Mayor Keith Summey's opening remarks at 3 p.m., Charleston Capoeira will treat audiences to a demonstration of the unique Brazilian dance-like martial art. Favorite local bands Crowfield and The Blue Dogs will play as will Mary Wilson of The Supremes. Festivities will be capped off by fireworks over the Cooper River at 9 p.m. Blankets and lawn chairs are encouraged, while alcoholic beverages are prohibited. www.northcharleston.org.

Celebrate at the Creek

The city of Goose Creek will hold its annual Fabulous 4th on the Creek event at the Marguerite H. Brown Municipal Center, starting at 7 p.m. and continuing on until the conclusion of the fireworks, which start at 9 p.m. The Fabulous Kays, a Charleston party cover band will entertain, while food vendors and a jump castle should keep kids occupied. www.cityofgoosecreek.com.

One lump or two?

As Americans it is our right to voice our opinions when we dislike the government's decisions. That is exactly what the members of the American Family Association in the Lowcountry intend on doing this Independence Day.

In solidarity with many other "Save The Nation" tea parties across the nation, the anti-taxation group will hold an Independence Day TEA (Taxed Enough Already) Party Towne Hall Celebration 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Cannon Park. Afterwards the politically likeminded crew intends on celebrating with barbecue, music, prizes and children's activities.

No actual tea bags are required. www.charlestonteaparty.org.