Get Out: Five ideas For Your Fourth of July Weekend

This time of year brings up so many memories for me: cheering for "The Grand Finale" at the local fireworks show, begging for a sparkler to write my name in the air, the looks of terror on my parents' faces as the neighborhood kids' rogue bottle rockets landed on our roof.

I am happy to report that this 4th of July weekend brings with it plenty of opportunities to make even more great memories. Just keep that fire extinguisher close.

Our goal is to make the Get Out planner as reliable as possible, but keep in mind, some events change at the last minute. We advise calling ahead just in case.

When/Where: 6:30 p.m. this Friday at

Why Go: Enjoy a live Q&A session with "Larry Crowne" star Bryan Cranston and screenwriter and actress Nia Vardalos after the 6:30 p.m. screening. Bryan Cranston is known for his roles in shows such as "Malcolm and the Middle" and "Breaking Bad." Nia Vardalos is known for writing and starring in films such as "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" and "I Hate Valentine's Day." Bryan Cranston is reportedly also a part owner of the Cinemas Palme D'or.

Pricing: $7.25-$11

When/Where: At dusk this Friday on the lawn in Old Town La Quinta, near Main Street and Avenida Bermudas in La Quinta

Why Go: Everyone is invited to watch fun, free outdoor movies on the first Friday of the month through November in Old Town La Quinta. Audience members are welcome to bring low-back chairs and blankets. You can even grab take-out at one of the nearby restaurants and have dinner on the lawn while you watch. This Friday's film is "Shrek Forever After."

Pricing: Free

When/Where: 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m .this Sunday in Humber Park at the Ernie Maxwell Trailhead in Idyllwild  

Why Go: Skilled Ranger Emily Hoerner will lead these hikes on multiple Sunday mornings throughout the summer. Hikes leave from Humber Park in Idyllwild and travel along the Ernie Maxwell trail. Learn about forest plants and animals, check out the pretty wildflowers and cool off a bit too. This is a great hike for families. No RSVP is required, but they are limited to 15 people. Stop at the ranger station on the way in to get directions and pick up the required Adventure Pass. If you have questions,

Pricing: $5 for a one-day Adventure Pass, $30 for the year

When/Where: The game starts at 6:o5 p.m. and free admission for the fireworks show starts at 8 p.m. this Monday at Palm Springs Stadium, 1901 East Baristo Road

Why Go: Celebrate Independence Day with two 4th of July classics: fireworks and baseball. Cheer the Palm Springs Power as they battle the Bay Cal Yankees. Then, enjoy the big fireworks show that starts at 9:15 p.m.  

Pricing: $7 for adults and $6 for children and seniors, free fireworks admission begins at 8 p.m

When/Where: 7:15 p.m. this Monday at in Palm Desert

Why Go: This fun, free 4th of July celebration promises to be exciting. The festivities begin at 7:15 p.m. with the National Anthem followed by a 7:30 p.m. Side Street Strutters concert. The big fireworks show starts at 9 p.m. and the 20-minute-long display will be accompanied by synchronized music from The Mix 100.5 radio station. Attendees are encouraged to bring picnic dinners, blankets and chairs to enjoy the show. Alcoholic beverages, smoking and portable barbeques are prohibited. Private fireworks are illegal in Civic Center Park and throughout the City of Palm Desert. Flashlights are recommended for safety exiting the park. 

Pricing: Free

If you plan on seeing an independent film on Independence Day, If you would like to see an example of how we really are "the home of the brave," check out cancer survivor Irene Neria's latest blog post,

Did we miss anything? Share your best ideas for this 4th of July weekend in the comment box below.