INDIANAPOLIS — Those planning on staying home for the July 4th holiday weekend can still find plenty to do here.
The 41st annual Donatos Downtown Freedom Blast features the state's largest fireworks display. It's slated to start at 9:45 p.m. on July 4. The fireworks will be shot from the top of the Region's Bank Tower and synchronized to music broadcast on radio stations WIBC-FM (93.1) and WLHK-FM (97.1).
According to statistics kept by the city's Department of Code Enforcement, about 200,000 people gather downtown to view Freedom Blast each year.
"It's really popular to watch it in the American Legion Mall area," said Brittany Smith, communications coordinator for Indianapolis Downtown, Inc.
The nearby Indiana War Memorial will be another viewing site. A private party will be conducted on the promenade, Donatos will sell pizza, and Emmis Communications will have games and activities.
There will be other prime places to view the fireworks around town. The Elbow Room on Pennsylvania Avenue is open until 3 a.m. with drink specials. The Fountain Square Theatre Building plans its 10th annual Rooftop 4th of July Celebration, including duckpin bowling and food from the Shelbi Street Cafe & Bistro. The Rathskeller's Biergarten also has a nice vantage point, and includes live music by The Connect and Zanna Doo from 7 to 11 p.m.
Activities abound all weekend leading up to the nation's birthday. New this year is the Rock and Roll BBQ July 1-3 at Victory Field. Aside from award-winning barbecue, there will be live music by the Charlie Daniels Band, Puddle of Mudd, Loverboy, and more. Admission is free before 6 p.m. Friday and before 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Visit the website at www.indyrocknrollbbq.com for more information.
"I think it will be a good event for families throughout each day," Smith said. "Hopefully it sticks around for the coming years."
White River State Park will be another hot spot this weekend. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 4 the Eiteljorg Museum offers free admission, including to its current exhibit "Red/Black," which examines the historical relationship between Native Americans and African Americans. Starting at 4:30 p.m., the Eiteljorg presents its Canal Family Fest, which includes games and crafts, music, and artist demonstrations. Visit the website at www.eiteljorg.org for more information.
White River State Park tops off July 4th with a concert by Florence + the Machine at 7 p.m. on The Lawn.
"You could make a day of it at White River State Park with the free exhibits at the museums and the concert that night," Smith said. "White River State Park has a lot going on, as far as the Fourth of July goes."
Concerts on the Canal is a music series at the Indiana Historical Society that runs through the summer. For July 4 it has a patriotic theme, featuring Craig Brenner and the Crawdads. Patrons may bring their own food and drinks. Visit the website at www.indianahistory.org for more information.
"It seems like we have a really good variety this year for people with all different interests," Smith said.
It's enough for people who don't want to spend the money to travel to a beach. As a bonus, downtown parking meters are free on July 4th.
"It's a good excuse for people to come downtown and save money, yet still do something fun for the Fourth of July," Smith said.
More information on all July 4th weekend activities may be found on Indianapolis Downtown, Inc.'s website at www.indydt.com.
wade.coggeshall@flyergroup.com
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