It’s the Fourth of July, on Hump-day

There’s something anti-climactic to having Fourth of July celebrations fall on the usual tepidity of midweek misery. Still, with the following options thrown your way, even a hump-day holiday can brighten and lighten that long haul to Friday.

Cruising in Style

Hilo Bayfront off Kamehameha Avenue becomes a beauteous beacon of classic cars.

The “Car Show and Shine,” will take place in the canoe landing area. Vehicles must have the “Cruise Paradise 2012” sticker and paid registration to enter and cars will arrive between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m.

Classic car love, image courtesy of Hilo Classic Cruisers

This is an alcohol free event; food booths will be on site. Classic cars can stay throughout the day and into the night to witness the bay’s fireworks display at 8 p.m.

If you want to make camp, tents will only be allowed along the perimeter of the parking area. Get there early to kapu a good vantage point.

Parading in Volcano

At 9 a.m., expect to see a parade make its way from the Volcano post office, along Old Volcano Road to conclude at Cooper Community Center on Wright Road.

Eyes will pop with festive floats and costumed animals. Ears will ring with the merry Hawai’i County Band and the roar of classic cars and fire engines.

There will also be games, crafts, food, music and more. Bring some pocket change as the Friends of the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park puts on a silent auction from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

This is a family friendly drug and alcohol free event. The Cooper Community Center is located at 19-4030 Wright Road in Volcano.

Horse Race and Rodeo

Rodeo at Parker Ranch, image courtesy of Parker Ranch

The Parker Ranch 50^th Annual July 4^th Horse Races and Rodeo will feature ribbon and ranch mugging, dally team roping and more.

There will be pony rides, a country store and ‘ono food.

Tickets are $5 in advance and $6 at the gate. The day begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 12 noon.

Children aged 10 and younger get in free. The Parker Ranch Rodeo Arena is located at 66-1304 Mamalahoa Highway in Waimea.

Check out further event info for July 4th events in the news section of www.bigislandnow.com.