The booms, the crackles, the color. Sure, they are a symbol of our country’s birthday, but that doesn’t mean it is every kid’s idea of a fun summer night. From little ones with sensory disorders to youngsters who just need to be in bed around dusk, here are a few ideas to celebrate sans the late, loud evening festivities.

1. Go West: Head to the mountains and find a secluded spot to settle in with the family for a quiet night of all-American hot dogs, s’mores, and camping stories. Bonus: Tips on camping with little ones.

2. Make Do: Make or buy an angel food cake and then let the little ones decorate it with strawberries, blueberries, and, of course, whipped cream. They’ll love the chance to make-their-own-food, and you can give them a history lesson on Old Glory while they work.

3. Park It: Stake out your stop along the 14-block Park Hill Fourth of July Parade route (from Dexter Street to Krameria Street on 23rd Avenue). The parade starts just after lunch at 1:30 p.m. Dress up in your Independence Day best, spread out on blankets and camping chairs to cheer on the floats, marching bands, acrobats, bikers, classic cars, and more. Tip: Temps could be in the 90s that day, so head to the neighborhood early to nab a spot under one of the massive old trees that line much of the route. parkhillparade.org

4. Cheap Seats: To still have an evening out, catch a flick at one of three metro Elvis Cinemas locations. The films may have been in theaters for a little while, but you can stack two together for a double feature. Even if you order popcorn, it will still be an affordable night out for the fam.

Bonus: Find even more ways to celebrate this holiday weekend here.

Follow editorial assistant Lindsey R. McKissick on Twitter at @LindseyRMcK.