*Pic courtesy of Flickr user Danny Huizinga*

It's not that hard to find fireworks on the Fourth of July here in DC. Just look up -- it's kind of insane. People spend crazy money on some down right amazing (and illegal) fireworks, and neighborhood after neighborhood has unofficial displays of patriotism (or something like that).

If you're looking for a family-friendly, food and drink evening, head over to the Armed Forces Retirement Home (aka Old Soldier's Home). This year the evening kicks off at 4pm on the grounds of the Home (enter at Rock Creek Church Rd and Randolph St NW).

There's kids activities, including trout fishing (bring your own trout, I mean, fishing poles), kickball at 4:30, capture the flag at 5:30, a parachute game (hopefully not skydiving) and a contest for the most patriotic bike and outfit at 7:30.

For adults and the hungry, Captain Cookie and Peruvian Chicken food trucks will be on hand, with a few others. Anheuser Busch will have a beer truck at the event, and DJ Billy White and "one-man-band" Waymon Lucas and the Music Messiahs will be providing music.

You'll be able to see the fireworks on the National Mall from the grounds -- assuming the weather holds out.

Note that parking requires a $10 "donation" and I don't believe dogs are invited. More info on their website and on the flyer below.

Happy Independence Day!