Top things to do in Tampa Bay for the week of July 2-8

Fourth of July: America's big day is Wednesday, and there are tons of ways to celebrate our independence. Since we're all really just here for the fireworks, consider these three bigger displays: Clearwater Celebrates America in Coachman Park (301 Drew St.) with children's activities, food, live music and fireworks between 9 and 9:30 p.m. In Tampa, the fireworks have moved from Channelside to the Tampa Convention Center (333 S Franklin St.) because of construction, but the new location gives great views all along Riverwalk. They set off at 9 p.m. In downtown St. Petersburg, fireworks kick off at 9:15 in from Vinoy Park (701 Bay Shore Dr NE), but the display can be seen from most of the city's waterfront parks. Vinoy Park will be closed all day. Weather conditions may bump the start time up to as early as 8 p.m. or delay the start time until 10 p.m.

date night

Music: Celebrate the Fourth on Wednesday in St. Petersburg at Ferg's Rockin' BBQ featuring P.O.D., Alien Ant Farm and Lit ($16.50-$39.50). Thursday, lovers rock reggae artist Beres Hammond performs with special guests Third World at Jannus Live in St. Pete ($36-$56). Friday, pop and R&B sensation Chris Brown takes Tampa's MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre ($20-$322), where Coheed and Cambria and Taking Back Sunday co-headline on Saturday ($29.50-$69.50). Also Saturday, English synthpop duo Erasure hit the stage at the Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg ($39.50-$79.50).

Dan and Phil: Interactive Introverts: YouTube comedy stars Daniel Howell and Phil Lester are bringing their new theatrical stage show loaded with off-the-wall sketches and audience interaction to Clearwater's Ruth Eckerd Hall on Saturday ($37.50-$156.50). rutheckerdhall.com.

Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella: The modern take on the classic fairy tale featuring songs including Impossible/It's Possible runs Thursday-Sunday at Tampa's Straz Center ($38-$83). strazcenter.org.

kids and family

Fourth of July at the History Center: The Tampa Bay History Center celebrates on Wednesday with free (for Bank of America card holders) or $5 admission and extended hours. Costumed re-enactors will share hands-on displays of artifacts, uniforms, crafts and music representing America's wars through history. Admission includes a tour of the American Flags: The Stars and Stripes in American History and Culture exhibit. tampabayhistorycenter.org.

more to explore

Plan your Fourth of July at tampabay.com/thingstodo.