Here’s a quick rundown of July 4 events in the Rio Grande Valley:

South Padre Island

If you’re looking to spend July 4 on South Padre Island get started at 10 a.m. at Beach Access 22 with a parade, which will end at Beach Access 17. There will be water and watermelons at the end of the parade as well as free beads and kazoos. If you stay through the day and into the night, be sure to check out the fireworks that start at 9:15 p.m. The best viewing is bayside between Palm and Red Snapper Streets. For more information call the SPI Convention & Visitors Bureau at (956) 761-6433.

McAllen Parade & Fireworks

Don’t feel like driving all the way to the Island but still in the mood for a July 4 parade? Celebrate America’s Independence at 9 a.m. July 4 during the 84^th annual parade presented by IBC Bank. Numerous patriotic floats, marching bands and entertainers will make their way down Main Street from McAllen City Hall to Archer Park. After the parade stick around for arts and crafts, interactive games, contests, music and food concessions in Archer Park. For more information call (956) 423-5440.

After you’ve been to the parade and maybe grabbed a quick siesta, head over to the Municipal Park in McAllen to catch the annual Concert in the Sky Fireworks beginning at 9 p.m.

Edinburg Texas Cook ‘em

If your July 4 celebration goes into the weekend, catch the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce as it celebrates Texas Cook’ em: High Steaks in Edinburg on July 4 weekend at the Edinburg Municipal Park on 714 Raul Longoria. Texas Cook’em is the Valley’s biggest and only IBCA sanctioned steak cook-off featuring T-Bone steak, chicken, ribs and brisket. Competitors pay on $75 per category or $200 for all categories with over $15,000 in prize money awarded to the top winners. For more information call the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce at (956) 383-4974.

Harlingen Jaycees Family Festival

If you find yourself in the middle of the Valley, join the Jaycees annual 4^th of July Parade and Family Festival in Harlingen. Wear your red, white and blue and bring the whole family to the parade. The festivities kick off on Jackson Street at 10 a.m. For more information visit TheHarlingenJaycees.org or call the Harlingen Area Chamber of Commerce at (956) 423-5440.

Brownsville Parade

If you find yourself in Brownsville, catch the annual 4^th of July parade that follows the Charro Days route. For more information visit Brownsville.org.