AUSTIN, TX — The downtown Fourth of July celebration in downtown Austin tonight will surely be spectacular as it is each Fourth of July, what with the Vic Mathias Shores backdrop, the Austin Symphony Orchestra playing patriotic music and those fireworks.

Less spectacular will be the number of roads that will be closed to accommodate the big show and attendant throngs. If you plan to go downtown this evening, you might plot out your route in advance if only to avoid post-fireworks headaches that would put a damper on your Independence Day vibe.

In terms of parking, there are ample garages, including the one at the convention center, the Texas center facility, another at Palmer Events Center and the site operated by the city.

By the way, have you ever taken the bus to arrive at an event like this? An event that promises to add traffic congestion to the streets, making driving more of a chore than a pleasure? It's not only convenient, but can be a fun way of getting somewhere while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow travelers.

You don't have to strike up a conversation with others, but being on a bus filled with people really imbues one with a sense of community and heightens awareness of our shared humanity. What's more, you'll be reducing your carbon footprint at least for that day, and that's not such a bad thing. Oh, and it's cheap, $1.25 each each way, $2.50 for a bus pass you're able to use the following day that expires 24 hours later. Anyway, click here for bus routes and schedules if this is something that interests you.

Whatever mode of transport you take, please be safe and don't drink and drive. Police announced previously they'll be out in full force tonight looking out for impaired drivers, and will be extending their "no refusal" period of enforcement. This means that even if you decline a breathalyzer or other test for intoxication, police will be able to secure immediate bench warrants from municipal judges to forcefully draw a blood sample from those unwilling to provide one willingly.