Lake Tahoe fireworks

Sunset, July, 2007

Sierra skies explode with a festival of lights this month as communities around Lake Tahoe mark our country's birthday. On July 3, catch a free concert at the Village at Squaw Valley USA. At night-fall, head to the base of the mountain, spread a blanket, and watch the pyrotechnics light up KT-22. South Shore Lake Tahoe's July Fourth extravaganza is touted as the biggest synchronized fireworks show west of the Mississippi--practically anything that floats heads out onto the water to watch the display, shot from barges moored near Stateline.

Don't have a boat? Board MS Dixie II (from Zephyr Cove) or Tahoe Queen (from Ski Run Marina); both paddle-wheelers offer July Fourth dinner cruises. On land, try Regan or Nevada Beaches, off U.S. 50. Lake Tahoe Cruises: $175; www.zephyrcove.com or 800/238-2463. Fireworks: Squaw Valley USA, 9 p.m. Jul 3, off State 89, www.squaw.com, South Shore Lake Tahoe, 9:45 p.m., Jul 4, off U.S. 50, www.bluelaketahoe.com