Do It This Weekend: CL’s guide to Fourth of July fireworks, Flick-N-Float movies, Save Our Shores benefit concert, Dreams in Motion at The Studio, Monkey Soup in Carrollwood and more

Fourth of July weekend brings the usual explosion of live music and entertainment, fireworks displays, and, of course, modern patriots drunk on the exhilaration of emancipation (and Bud Light).

But some local venues remember what today is really all about: freedom. As in, that most American of ideals, a day off of work and free (or cheap) admission. Patriotic participating venues include the Tampa Bay History Center (an appropriate theme for the day and a great place to catch the Channelside fireworks); The Florida Aquarium (admission’s just $10 after 3 p.m., and they’ve extended their hours to 9:30 p.m.); and Cracker Country at the Florida State Fairgrounds, where you’ll be reminded how improved life is in the good ol’ U.S. of A since the advent of AC. They’re also hosting crafts, competitions, and a “big slice of Florida history,” which translates to lessons on Sunshine State pioneers and churning butter.

If you’re willing to brave the unconditioned Florida air, there’s plenty to do from bay to shining gulf. If you’re in St. Pete, head to

This article appears in Jul 1-7, 2010.