Best places in town to celebrate the Fourth

For the first time in three decades, Colorado Springs and its residents will go without a Fourth of July celebration at Memorial Park.

But the good news is that there are plenty of other places in the city to celebrate Independence Day, so make your plans now and trying something new!

If you're up north, check out the fireworks at Flying Horse.

Like things fast and furious? How about the fireworks at the El Paso County Speedway?

Or, there's family-oriented fun and live music at the US Air Force Academy fireworks show.

Details you might need to know if you are going to the Air Force Academy:

· Enter through the North Gate, Exit 156-B off of I-25. You might be stopped and asked to show an ID, such as a driver's license.

· Vendors wlll open for business and entertainment will start at 5 p.m. Saturday, but it's OK to get there earlier. The Blue Steel combo of the academy band will perform from 8:50 to 9:20 p.m.; fireworks start at about 9:30 p.m. and last for about 20 minutes.

· A big turnout is expected, and parking will be limited, so carpooling is encouraged. Parking will be available at and near the Cadet Field House.

· Visitors can bring cameras, lawn chairs, blankets, umbrellas and sealed plastic water bottles. Prohibited items include coolers, barbecue grills, pets other than working service dogs, and fireworks. Water and portable restrooms will be provided.

• The celebration may be canceled if the weather is bad - especially if lightning is in the area. The cadet radio station, KAFA 97.7 FM, is the best place to check for schedule changes or cancellations, but its reach it limited mostly to the academy grounds.

Click here to find out all the places in town to go for fireworks, fun and more!