Next Thursday will mark the 248 birthday of the United States of America, and with it comes the smell of hot dogs on the grill, fireworks in the sky and family reunions.

Brown County Independence Day celebrations are scheduled to begin on Friday with fireworks at the Cottonwood Church in Morgantown (2523 W Cottonwood Road) at 7 p.m.. Hot dogs, snacks and drinks have been arranged for the event, all people need to bring is their own lawn chair.

Independence Day or July 4 falls on a Thursday this year, because of this there are also a couple of celebrations on the books for the weekend. If people are looking for something to do on Thursday, the American Legion is putting together their annual veteran and family picnic from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Deer Run Park. American Legion Commander Kelly McCauley told the Democrat that Cummins is arranging for volunteers to cook burgers and hot dogs and provide drinks. He also said that regardless of the event name, everyone is invited to attend.

Story Inn is also planning an Independence Day celebration on July 4 with fireworks and a community concert. The concert is scheduled start at 2 p.m. with a lineup of King Bee and the Stingers, Tyler Poe and the Volunteer Railroad and Stoney Lonesome. The fireworks are on the books for dusk.

Next Saturday the Brown County Lions Club are scheduled to host the annual Independence Day Fireworks at the Brown County High School football field at dark. Scouts from Troop 190 are planning on selling glow bracelets and food to raise money for their summer camp. The Lions Club will accept donations during the celebration to help cover event costs.

For residents of Cordry-Sweetwater, the Cordry Sweetwater Lot Owners Association’s 64th annual Ox Roast is on the books for Saturday as well. The roast is scheduled from noon to 5 p.m. with fireworks starting at 10 p.m. on the beach. There is expected to be live music, food trucks, games and a silent auction.