The Fourth of July is synonymous with freedom and fireworks, neither of which are in short supply in the Baton Rouge area.
Each year, a great debate rises over which side of the Mississippi River is the better side from which to watch the annual “Fireworks on the Mississippi” display.
The dispute stems from the residents of Baton Rouge and Port Allen who both claim their side of the levee is superior.
Baton Rouge is arguably the more populated side when it comes to the Fourth of July festivities. But, safety concerns make some residents hesitant to come out at night. Annual Fourth of July shootings persuade many to stay inside instead of venturing to the levee. Baton Rouge’s crime rate is well known but violent crimes seems to increase when alcohol is involved. BRPD will be tightening security for the display this year in response to the uptick in violence, WBRZ reports.
The Port Allen side of the Mississippi River has a less violent reputation, but the calmer and quieter environment means fewer people flock to Port Allen for the fireworks display.
Port Allen may be the better option for families with young children. It still attracts a crowd, but it doesn’t attract a Baton Rouge-sized crowd.
Most will flock to the side where their friends or family are located. Both sides have a solid view of the fireworks and loads of patriotic people, food and drinks to go around.
The main influence in the battle of the two sides is subjective. The amount of fun you have is gauged upon whom you view the fireworks with and what they do as a group or individually.
As with any experience, a good time is what a person makes out of what they have. Things will explode and it will be fun. There’s no need to make it complicated.
WBRZ Channel 2 will present “Fireworks on the Mississippi” Friday at 9 p.m., an experience for both sides of the river to celebrate their independence along with the rest of America.