Fourth of July celebration at Walt Disney World

If you are taking your family to Orlando, Florida  this summer, check out some of these festivals and concerts, many of which have free admission for children.  Fourth of July weekend is a great time to go and watch some spectacular fireworks shows.  There are some great airline deals, so start your summer planning now – before the kids get out of school!

JUNE:

U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame Astronaut Induction (June 5): Guests can share in a historical American event as space heroes gather to honor their own during the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame's 2009 Induction Ceremony at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Past inductees include Jim Lovell, John Glenn, Gene Cernan, John Young, Sally Ride and Norm Thagard.  Admission: Included in regular park admission.  Children 2 and under free.

Florida’s Juneteenth Music Festival (June 12 – 19): Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of Slavery in the United States. Events are held at Wells' Built Museum, Wells' Heritage House and Lake Eola Park. Enjoy family-friendly activities including a jazz, blues and gospel concert at Lake Eola Park featuring local artists.  Admission: Free.

Sounds Like Summer Concert Series at EPCOT (June 12 – July 31): Families can gather together for an unforgettable night of music and memories in the open-air America Gardens Theater at Epcot. Admission: Included in regular park admission.  Admission is free for hildren ages 2 and under.

19th Annual Harvest Festival (June 18 – 20): Held at Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards in Clermont, the event offers arts and crafts, live music, free tours, grape stomping, wine tasting and plenty of free parking. Food and beverages available for purchase. Admission: $2 donation for Hospice Foundation.

JULY:

Coke Zero 400 (July 3): Formerly the Pepsi 400, this series has been an Independence Day weekend tradition for nearly five decades. Motorhead fans are on the edge of their seats as racing stars tackle the 31-degree high banks of Daytona International Speedway. Enjoy the spectacle of night time racing followed by a fireworks extravaganza.

Red Hot & Boom (July 3): Held at Cranes Roost Park in Altamonte, Red Hot & Boom is an Independence Day celebration that features big name performances. The event also features food, beverage and a fireworks display. Admission: Free.

Independence Day at Universal Orlando Resort (July 4): Guests can enjoy a special version of the popular Universal 360: A Cinesphere Spectacular, complete with a patriotic finale and dazzling fireworks display; or the All-American Barbecue Celebration at Universal CityWalk from 5-9 pm.

Independence Day at Walt Disney World Resort (July 4): All four theme parks come alive with special shows celebrating the Fourth of July. Admission: Included in regular park admission.  Children ages 2 and under free.

Fireworks Over the Fountain (July 4):Celebrate United States independence at the free fireworks display and laser show around Lake Eola in downtown Orlando.  Residents and visitors alike pack their picnic baskets, comfy blankets and fun-loving kids and head out to Lake Eola for an old-fashioned summertime picnic.  Admission: Free.

Fourth of July at Celebration Town Center (July 4): Celebration Town Center celebrates the 4th of July with a parade, live music and fireworks. Admission: Free.

*Always check out the details prior to buying event tickets, as they are subject to change.