Celebrate The 4th In The Heartland, By Melody Schubert: When it comes to spectacular events celebrating Freedom Indiana is at the top of the list. And, while the timing of these events may vary from year to year, the theme remains the same; it is a celebration of our American hero's and independence!

 Here are few exciting events that will take place in the heart of Indiana over the 4th of July:

* Hometown Heroes Homecoming at the Indiana War Memorial July 4th.

Join in a salute to service people and their families. There will be musical performances, picnic dinners, areas to learn more about the military and supporting our troops, and much more.

* Regions Bank "Freedom Blast" is the largest fireworks display in Indiana. The downtown sky will light up starting at 9:45 p.m. from the rooftop of the One Indiana Square Tower. Attendees are encouraged to bring their radios and tune to WFBQ, 94.7 FM, for a synchronized concert of patriotic and popular music.

* Glorious 4th

See how this celebration has changed (or not changed) over the years! March with the Prairietown militia as it musters, taste some homemade ice cream and join in an historic baseball game. Wave the red, white and blue as you listen to some patriotic music. There will be a reading of the Declaration of Independence, veterans' recognition, flag presentation & militia march. With special activities in each historic area, there is something for the entire family!

* Symphony on the Prairie: Yankee Doodle Symphony (July 2-4)

Patriotic pops, veterans salute, and holiday fun under the Stars at Conner Prairie. Evening concludes with spectacular fireworks display. * Strolling living history interpreters will greet concertgoers. Gates open at 4:30 p.m. for picnicking and pre-concert entertainment.

* Independence in Indiana / Canal Family Fest

The Indiana State Museum invites everyone to celebrate Independence in Indiana on July 4 from its scenic location on the downtown canal walk. As a part of the city's Canal Family Fest, visitors to the museum can enjoy a special celebration including fun, family-oriented activities before the annual downtown fireworks. After hours, visitors may enjoy the fireworks from the cafe terrace.

* Naturalization Ceremony at the President Benjamin Harrison Home July 2nd

The Honorable Judge Sarah Evans Barker will preside over the naturalization ceremony of approximately 100 new U.S. citizens. Harrison Home Foundation Board President Thomas A. King will invite the new citizens and their families to tour the President’s home. Ceremony will be held in tent on south lawn rain or shine.

* The Annual 4th of July Ice Cream Social at the President Benjamin Harrison Home, July 4 – 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Enactors and live music will bring Harrison Home memories to life. Croquet and other Victorian games will be available on the south lawn. Special activities: scavenger hunt for children; re-enactment of Harrison’s July 4, 1888, acceptance speech of his nomination for President of the United States; refreshing ice cream. A spirited yet relaxed celebration prior to fireworks. Costs: Adults $8; children $4

* "Operation America Rising" will take place on 7-7-07 in cities all over America. On that momentous day, there will be prominent speakers and entertainers. Indiana's event will feature prominent speakers and entertainers. Children and adults will be gathered together saluting America's finest. This national salute to our troops will be a gleaming observance of America's patriotism. People of all ages will show our troops that we are behind the men and women of the armed forces.

* Groovin in the Garden at Easley Winery

Join them in the wine garden Tuesdays and Saturdays, May through September for live music, wine and great food. Order carry-out from several local restaurants for delivery right to your wine garden table.