Top ten things to do in Utah County on the 4th of July when the Orem Library is closed

I know, you are absolutely crushed that the library is closed today, and I don’t blame you. In the spirit of patriotism, community, and having fun (which, let’s face it–this is what the American dream is all about, amirite?) we thought we’d help you out with a list of great, non-library dependent summer activities you might do today. Get out there, my fellow Americans, and celebrate your freedom to never be bored!

1. Early morning hot air balloon watching: Start off the day with a trip to Provo for a look at the hot air balloons as they inflate, then watch as the balloons float in mid-air. It’s 30+ year tradition for the Freedom Festival.
2. Get a sweet, frozen treat: Ice cream. It’s cold, it’s delicious, it’s a Utah county summertime icon. If you’ve got plans in town, there are many, many choices to quench your craving. If you want to get out of the city a bit, I’d recommend Rowley’s Red Barn in Santaquin. My favorite is lemon custard, but if you’re ready for something a little more daring, the chocolate habanero might have just the right culinary fireworks for you. Pick up some locally grown cherries while you’re there, but get there before 4. They’re closing up shop early for the holiday.
3. Orem’s new Bark Park: Our canine friends like to celebrate their freedom, too, and this year you and your best puppy friend can throw a party at the Bark Park at Timpanogos park. It was unveiled in May, and if you haven’t visited yet, get on over there for a spirited game of fetch.
4. Colonial Heritage Festival: Travel back in time to experience the history of our great nation in real time. There’s something for everyone, young to old, crafter to military enthusiast. All the fun is at SCERA park in Orem.
5. Take a dip in the SCERA Pool: I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but here in the high desert, summers are hot and dry. The perfect antidote to hot and dry–a nice cool swim! Orem’s outdoor SCERA pool is open from 12:30 to 7 on Independence Day, which is a great way to free yourself from oppressive summer time heat.
6. Take in a parade: Downtown Provo is your parade mecca for the largest July 4th parade in Utah. Starts at 9 am.
7. Head for the hills: A nice hike is a great way to get the blood pumping and the lungs clear on a day like this. There are all kinds of beautiful trails in our area, and in the mornings and evenings it’s a great way to beat the heat. One family-friendly option to visit or re-visit? Stewart Falls.
8. Bike the Murdock Canal Trail: It’s a lovely sunset ride, the perfect option between the barbecue and the fireworks.
9. Float the Provo River: One more way to beat the heat on Independence Day. Grab a raft, a tube or a kayak and take a float down the river. Being a hometown girl I might be a little biased, but Provo Canyon is gorgeous, the river is cold, and with the right equipment and either a little experience or a good guide, there’s no better way to experience the beauty of this area.
10. FIREWORKS!!: Pick your poison, folks. Around 10 pm or so the whole valley will be enjoying various displays of patriotic pyrotechnics–Discovery Park in Pleasant Grove, Thanksgiving Point, or in your own neighborhood. If you are enjoying a homegrown fireworks display, stay safe and legal by checking up on your city and state ordinances and avoiding those areas where fireworks are prohibited.