St. Louis, July 4, 6 and 7 - Gather under the Gateway Arch along the Mississippi River to mark the holiday with air shows, ethnic foods, and fireworks shot from barges. Top performers provide bang-up entertainment. But Fair Saint Louis isn't just a spectator sport. You can volunteer to help at the event, or participate in 3K and 10K races. Take your kids to the Art Forest for hands-on arts and crafts. At the Family Fun Village, children can play a giant croquet game, learn about vehicle and pedestrian safety and navigate an inflatable obstacle course.

Columbus, Ohio, July 3 - Red, White and Boom! presents live music and a parade along the downtown riverfront. After dark, fireworks set to music light up the sky over the river. In light of the events of September 11, Red, White & Boom! is planned to be a time of reflection, as well as a time of celebration.

Bismarck, North Dakota, July 4 - A symphony orchestra plays patriotic music for the Bismarck-Mandan Fourth of July Spectacular on the steps of the State Capitol Mall. Popular patriotic numbers include Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture" and Sousa's "Stars and Stripes Forever." The National Guard salutes veterans and members of the armed forces with a fly-over. Entertainment begins at 8:30 p.m., and fireworks will close out the patriotic performance at about 11 p.m.

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