If you're in the mood to go off base over the long 4^th of July weekend, you're in luck. Many surrounding towns and cities host free concerts, parades and fireworks that are sure to be a good time.

Want to start the celebration early? Try Poulsbo's Third of July event, held along the historic waterfront of Liberty Bay, in the newly dedicated Muriel Iverson Williams Waterfront Park. Entertainment will be on the Kvelstad Pavilion from noon to 10 p.m. The fireworks display should start at approximately 10:15 p.m.

On the 4^th, your family can head to the Puyallup Fairgrounds for the all day and night, CityBlast. Spectators can enjoy the 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament, which runs from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., kids can play in the Fun Zone at 6 p.m., and a stage show ending with fireworks will begin at 9 p.m.

From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., stop by the 4^th of July Festival in Auburn's Les Grove Park, 910 9th St. SE. The festival includes craft booths, games, vintage cars, two live entertainment stages, inflatable rides, art and plenty of food vendors. Some rides are not free and a $5 wristband can be purchased for unlimited activities.

Right out the JBM Main back gate, DuPont will host its annual parade, starting at 10 a.m. and looping down Wilmington and Palisade Drives. This will be followed by a carnival from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Clocktower Park, which includes a BBQ that is free to military members (with ID) and their families.

Just down the road, Steilacoom will also host their Grand Old Fourth old-fashioned parade and street fair along waterfront Lafayette Street, with the fair opening at 9 a.m. and the parade starting at 1 p.m. Following the day's celebration, fireworks will be set off over the Sound at 10:30 p.m. 

You can also head south to Tumwater to attend their 24^th annual Independence Day Celebration Parade, which starts at 11 a.m. and will follow a route along Capitol Boulevard and Israel Road. A festival will be held later in the day at 6 p.m. and fireworks will commence at 10:15 p.m.

No matter where you start out, you can end the day in Federal Way at the Red, White and Blues Luau, being held at Celebration Park, 1095 South 324th St. The show begins at 6 p.m. and will feature live music, dancing, a hotdog eating contest and more. Fireworks will start at 10:15 p.m. to close out the evening.