As Texans in the Austin area prepare to celebrate Independence Day, there is no shortage of events to choose from, with options for families, late-night party crowds, and everyone in between. Several firework displays will be viewable for free in Austin,

From smoke balls and sparklers to firecrackers and mortars, fireworks are a staple of many Fourth of July weekend festivities. But with the vast displays of these brightly colored pyrotechnics comes many safety risks,

Fourth of July fireworks will return Friday on NBC, PBS and CNN. The networks will air TV specials such as "Macy's 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular."