Downtown Wasilla is the place to be this Fourth of July, as it promises to be a sea of red, white and blue as the annual parade floats wind their way through the town. It's one of the largest parades you'll see each year, and there's plenty of fun to be had. The parade begins at 11 a.m. sharp and continues through the early afternoon. Then, you can make your way to Wasilla Iditapark for the annual Mayor's Picnic, which starts at 1 p.m. Free food and drinks for everyone, so you don't want to miss out on this fun event.

Also in Wasilla is the final "Music in the Park" for the summer, with live music, food vendors, games and family-friendly activities taking place all day. Music continues from noon to 9 p.m. at Iditapark.

In Talkeetna, the entire day is devoted to fun and patriotism as well. The town's parade is one not to be missed, because you get to see it twice. That's right - the parade goes down Main Street, turns around and comes back up Main Street. Don't miss it - it starts at noon.

In Willow, the Fourth of July parade starts at noon, with a potluck barbecue to follow at 1 p.m. at the community center. Burgers, hot dogs and drinks are provided, and people are encouraged to bring any other sides. There will be a bouncy house and games for kids, and axe throwing for teens and adults.

For more rockets and red glare, catch the big July 4 race event at Alaska Raceway Park. With a genuine drag strip and a circuit track, there's no shortage of fun for the family at the races and you can bet the Independence Day spirit will be strong there on the fourth.

If you like your automotive action a little more off the tracks, and off a cliff for that matter, head up the Glenn Highway to the annual July 4 Glacier View Car Launch. Thousands of Alaskans and visitors have made the journey to witness this spectacle over the years. Watch as stripped down cars are carefully aimed, revved up, and launched unmanned over a 300 foot precipice to a metal munching demise.

No matter where you are in the Valley, there's a popular community event teed up to celebrate our nation's independence in a unique and memorable way. Come out and participate in the fun. Have a great - and safe - Fourth of July!