We want YOU...to have a good 4th of July. So we made a round-up: check it.

--By Kelly Dickinson

It's almost the Fourth of July in the cradle of the American Revolution. You know what that means: the customary explosion of airborne pyrotechnics and family gatherings centered around the grilling of an animal plus the copious consumption of alcoholic beverages in the name of good old-fashioned patriotism. As usual, Boston is celebrating in full force, so we've cobbled together some of the fêtes, fests, and feasts going down around town for the 4th. We've even found you some colonial cosplay (revolutionary America is full of awesome characters. You know you want to.)

Boston Harborfest + Chowderfest | June 29-July 4
This week-long event celebrates two awesome things about Boston: the harbor, and the seafood. It also celebrates history, as there will be plenty of people in silly, pointy hats. Harborfest has been called the largest patriotic celebration in the country, and Chowderfest is probably the biggest celebration for chowderphiles in the country.

Somerville Annual 4th Of July Fireworks | June 30
Don't be fooled by the name: these 4th of July festivities actually take place on the 30th. The Somerville Sunsetters and disco-funk group Booty Vortex play the tunes to accompany the 'works. Festivities start at 6pm, with a fireworks display at 9:30.

Annual 4th of July Public Fireworks Cruise | June 30 + July 4
The Boston Seaport Boat Charters are offering two opportunities to view the fireworks from the Harbor. The June 30 cruise corresponds with the Harborfest Fireworks, while the July 4th matches up with the Boston Pops. Watch pretty things explode in the sky from the safety of the water.

Harvard Town Fireworks + Independence Day Picnic | July 1
It's hard to find a place more old-timey New-England than Fruitlands Museum in Harvard.This museum celebrates nature, the Hudson River School, and the local history of Shakers, Native Americans and Transcendentalists alike. The holiday festivities include a barbecue, live music, and of course, fireworks at 9pm. There's a $10 parking fee, but admission is free.

Cape Ann Independence Day Celebration | July 3 + 4
The list of 4th of July festivities at Cape Ann is a long one. There are music acts, three parades, a fireworks display on the 3rd and a bonfire on the 4th. Celebrations are taking place in Gloucester, Rockport and Manchester by the Sea, and are mostly free and all family-friendly. Don't miss the Gloucester Horribles Parade and Fireworks on the 3rd.

Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular | July 3 + 4
The 1812 overture. Fireworks. Thousands of people sitting on the banks of the Charles, both sides. The Boston Pops is one of the most famous 4th of July Celebrations in the country, and while it's certainly hectic, it's part of the Boston Summer experience. This year's special guests are Lionel Richie (dude), Michael Chiklis and Keith Richards.

Old Sturbridge Village 1830's Independence Day Celebration | July 4
Resistant to celebrate the 235th birthday of our nation? Perhaps the 60th birthday is more your style. Partying like it's 1839 with processions, readings, activities, and perhaps a game of that new-fangled sport "base ball." It's a bit of a hike, but worth it if you are the history nerd buff.

July 4th USS Constitution Turn-Around Cruise | July 4
Every 4th of July, the USS Constitution sails to South Boston for a 21-gun salute. Boston Harbor Cruises is offering a chance to watch the ships set sail aboard their afternoon lunch cruises. The two ships both offer cash bars and extensive menus. They leave from 1 Long Wharf at 10:30am on the morning of the 4th. And if you just wanna dance Boston Harbor Cruises also offers a Dance Cruise.