9 Ways to Celebrate the 4th of July in Michigan Without Fireworks

What's the first think you think of when you think of the 4th of July?

Fireworks, right?

For good reason! The firecrackers, Black Cats and sparklers are pretty much synonymous with Independence Day in the United States.

SEE ALSO: Know Before You Light Up - July 4th Fireworks Laws in Michigan

But what if you want to celebrate the holiday without the fireworks? There are plenty of ways to do that in Michigan.

4th of July at the Lake

One thing about living in the heart of the Great Lakes, there's always a beach within less than a couple hours' drive. Celebrate the 4th with an extended weekend sunbathing, swimming, or sightseeing somewhere like Sleeping Bear Dunes or Grand Haven.

4th of July at Pictured Rocks

Taking in the beauty of Michigan's Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is another fun way to celebrate "America the Beautiful".

4th of July Parades

Independence Day parades are another heartwarming holiday tradition. Michigan.org is a treasure trove of information, making it easy to find a 4th of July parade near you.

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4th of July at Fort Mackinac

We typically think of the Revolutionary War when we think of the 4th of July - after all, that's when the United States declared its independence. But we've had to defend that independence from time to time. Michigan's Fort Mackinac was the site of the first significant land battle of The War of 1812. It's a stark reminder that freedom is never free.

4th of July at the National Cherry Festival

An air show, parades, Air Dogs - the National Cherry Festival in Traverse City has it all. Sure to make your heart (and belly) swell with American pride!

4th of July at Battle Creek's Field of Flight Air Show and Balloon Festival

Speaking of air shows, Battle Creek's got an amazing one for the 4th of July. The Field of Flight Air Show and Balloon Festival takes to the skies with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the U.S. Army Golden Knights, demos featuring the U.S. Navy F-18F Super Hornet Rhino and F-35C Lightning II and more.

Camping on the 4th of July

Commemorate your own independence out in the Michigan wild! Set up a tent or camper and get away from it all this 4th of July.

A 4th of July Picnic

Celebrating the 4th of July can be as simple as packing a picnic lunch and laying a blanket down on the ground at your local park.

A 4th of July Taco Fest?

OK. We'll be the first to admit this may not be one of the most traditional ways to mark America's independence... but we are a melting pot of nationalities and cultures. The Royal Oak Taco Fest is happening this weekend with live music, margaritas and food "from over 50 taquerias and eateries" - and there's never a bad time for tacos.