Burlington fireworks party: 5 things to know

This year Burlington's annual Independence Day celebration and fireworks, which happen on Friday, will also commemorate the 150th anniversary of the city's founding in 1865.

Mayor Miro Weinberger estimated 50,000 to 75,000 spectators descended on the Queen City for last year's show.

Here are five things to know about Friday's festivities:

1. The fireworks kick off at 9:30 p.m. on the waterfront. Much of Burlington Harbor provides great views of the fireworks. Popular viewing locations include Perkins Pier, North Beach, Battery Park, Oakledge Park and Waterfront Park. Arrive in the early evening to ensure a prime viewing spot, because the waterfront does get crowded.

2. There will be plenty of entertainment beforehand. Here's a brief rundown:

•Perkins Pier — Root 7 a capella group, 5 to 7 p.m.; Mango Jam funk and reggae band, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

•Waterfront Park and Community Boathouse — Price Chopper Hopper Bounce House, 4 to 9 p.m.; Sambatacuda! African-Brazilian percussion, 6 to 8 p.m.; Dan Marcotte Biplane Airshow, 8:30 to 8:45 p.m.; Kat Wright & the Indomitable Soul Band, 8 to 9:30 p.m. and 10 to 11 p.m. Battery Park

•Burlington Concert Band and 40th Army Band of the Vermont National Guard, 7 to 9:20 p.m.

•North Beach — Live broadcast and giveaways with Eagle Country 97.5 FM, 5 to 9 p.m.

3. There will be plenty of parking, with shuttles. The Burlington Department of Parks and Recreation recommends spectators park at Gutterson Garage on Spear Street at the University of Vermont. Buses will run from 3:45 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. from Patrick Gym, next to the garage, to the bottom of Main Street. Round-trip fare is $1. For shuttle route and specific times, visit http://bit.ly/1KpxK2M

Parking is free at all city street spaces. City-owned garages will charge $5. Parking at Perkins Pier will be $10 for cars and $20 for trailers. The Department of Public Works asks spectators to prepare to wait as long as an hour to leave after the fireworks due to heavy traffic.

Bike parking is free. Cyclists can bring their bikes to the Local Motion valet at the waterfront parking lot near Lake Street.

Spectators can also take the Vermont Railway to Burlington. Learn about ticketing info at www.rails-vt.com.

4. Boats are welcome in Burlington Harbor, but must stay out of the designated safety zone. Boat traffic within the harbor is prohibited after 8:30 p.m. All watercraft, including kayaks and canoes, must have lights on after dusk.

5. Friday's weather looks beautiful. The National Weather Service in South Burlington predicts a sunny day Friday, with some clouds and a high of 81 degrees. Friday evening, forecasters predict the temperature to dip into the upper 50s.

Spectators with additional questions can contact the Department of Parks and Recreation at 864-0123.