Fourth of July Cookout at Disney

Swan and Dolphin Hotel

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If you want to beat the crowds with an early Fourth of July celebration head to Walt Disney World’s Swan and Dolphin Hotel on July 2. Just off the Epcot Resort Area’s lagoon in the Fantasia Gardens Pavilions, guests can indulge in an old-fashioned barbecue buffet filled with all-American summer favorites — burgers, barbeque chicken, hot dogs and Carolina shoulder — wash it all down with frosty lemonade and ice tea. Expect slices of juicy watermelon, apple pie and plenty of ice cream. Live entertainment, carnival rides and games galore keep the kids busy. The fun goes from 3 to 8 pm. After dark find a perch on the nearby Disney Boardwalk to catch a glimpse of the neighboring theme parks’ fireworks shows. Tickets for the Star and Stripes Celebration are $45 for adults and $25 for children.

Tags: Fourth of July