The Fourth of July falls on Wednesday this year, but several events kick off the celebrations early. Check out some things to do heading into the holiday:

1. Applique Getaway returns to Grapevine

June 29-July 1 At the sixth annual Applique Getaway more than 800 crafters, entrepreneurs, vendors, and instructors will be gathering at in Grapevine to feature classes, product demonstrations, shopping, prizes, friendship, fun and more for all skill levels of machine embroidery enthusiasts, vinyl crafters and entrepreneurs. Times vary. $20 (weekend shopping pass), $130 (weekend shopping and classes), $85 (Saturday or Sunday only shopping and classes). Hilton DFW Lakes Executive Conference Center, 1800 Hwy. 26E, Grapevine. www.jlmcreativeevents.com

2. 'Frozen Jr.' performs at Palace Theatre

July 2-6 Ohlook Performing Arts Center will bring the Disney movie “Frozen” to life through its young performers in “Frozen Jr.” 10:30 a.m. $20 (12 and older), $16 (11 and under). 300 S. Main St., Grapevine. 817-410-3100. www.grapevinetexasusa.com

3. Stars and Stripes returns to Southlake

July 3 The city of Southlake celebrates its 19th annual Stars and Stripes with family fun and patriotic activities such as live entertainment, activities for children, a variety of food and drink options, free shuttle service and a display of fireworks. Guests are invited to bring folding chairs, blankets, water and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy during the celebration. Tarps, tents and alcoholic beverages are prohibited. 6-11 p.m. Free. 1400 Main Street, Southlake. 817-748-8019. www.starsandstripessouthlake.com

4. Grapevine celebrates America's birthday with fireworks

July 4 Grapevine holds its 36th annual July 4 fireworks show. The city will feature music to match the show, which can be streamed from www.grapevinetexasusa.com/events/july-fourth-fireworks. Some suggested viewing areas include:

• Acorn Woods Park
• Field next to Scott's Landing Marina (private paid parking)
• Oak Grove Park Baseball and Soccer parking lots, opening at 2 p.m
• Oak Grove Park-Minnow Loop and Trawick
• Katie's Woods Park
• Lakeview Park - $10 / car, All areas including pavilions and picnic shelters are first come, first serve.  No "In & Out"* on July 4
• McPherson Slough
• Municipal Service Center Parking Lot
• Rockledge Park -  $20/car holiday rate, all areas including pavilions and picnic shelters are first come, first serve. No "In & Out"* on July 4th
• The Vineyards Campground & Cabins - Closed to the public but accessible to registered guests.
• Silver Lake Marina Park - (private paid parking)
• Meadowmere Park -  $10/car holiday rate, all areas including pavilions and picnic shelters are first come, first serve. Altitude H2O Water Park will be operating on a walk-up basis only on July 4 with no advance reservations.

The show starts at 9:30 p.m. Free for all public parking. Grapevine Lake, Oak Grove Loop South, Grapevine. 800-457-6338. www.grapevinetexasusa.com/events/july-fourth-fireworks