HOUSTON — Fireworks, festivals and parades return in full force this July 4 with events planned across the Greater Houston area. The celebrations of America's independence will include everything from traditional parades to festivals -- large and small -- concerts and, of course, the star of the show: fabulous fireworks.

It's not the Fourth of July without fireworks. Here are some places around greater Houston where you can see the skies burst with color on Friday. Freedom Over Texas Festivities begin at 4pm at Eleanor Tinsley Park on Buffalo Bayou.