If those high gas prices are keeping you from traveling far this holiday weekend, we have some local events that are a lot of bang for the buck.

The party was started early at the Elizabeth Lutheran Church in Caldwell. They held a celebration including hamburgers, hot dogs, and ice cream as well as live music and an impressive fireworks display after dark. The Church is located on Highway 21 East.

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On the 4th, Jason Boland and The Stragglers will be out at Lake Bryan and on the fifth Rich O'Toole will be on stage after the fireworks at 9 p.m.

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On Independence Day, the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum will hold its annual "I love America" festivities, featuring the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra, fireworks and a flyover.

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Also on the 4th is Fireworks on the Brazos at Washington on the Brazos. There will be free Blue-Bell ice cream and, of course, fireworks galore.

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If fireworks and the night life aren't your thing or you just want to get the day started with some exercise, there's the Four on the Fourth Fun Run at Veterans Park starting at 7 a.m.

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After working up an appetite, head to the Millican Community Center's annual pancake breakfast which is from 8 until 11 a.m.

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Mt. Zion's Community Center's 55th Annual free bar-b-que celebration.
Friday. This will be an all day event beginning around 10:30 A.M. located West of Hwy 21 to FM 696 down CR 324.

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The Brazos Heritage Society is having another old-fashioned 4th Celebration at Heritage Park in historic Bryan. "Proud Country" will be entertaining with classic country music. The event begins at 9:30 a.m. with the flag raising ceremony by the American Sojourners in historic Patriot costume. The children's Patriot Parade begins at 10:30 a.m.

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For a complete listing of events on or around the 4th, check out our Community Calendar.