July 3
Mark Independence Eve with the Houston Symphony
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion hosts an Independence Eve celebration culminating in the Houston Symphony’s “Star-Spangled Salute.” Prior to the show, visitors can take photos with patriotic characters, try their hand at arts and crafts and participate in an “instrument petting zoo” before a pre-show presentation by The Woodlands Show Chorus. 6:30 p.m. (activities), 8 p.m. (show). Free. The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, 2001 Lake Robbins Drive, The Woodlands. 281-364-3010. www.woodlandscenter.org

July 4
View a parade and car show
Oak Ridge North marks the Fourth of July with its annual parade and car and truck show. Attendees can watch vehicles, including decades-old classics and military trucks, drive by before final judging. Activities and food are also offered in Marilyn Edgar Park following the procession. 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Marilyn Edgar Park, 26531 Hillside Drive, Oak Ridge North. 281-292-4648. www.oakridgenorth.com

July 4
Participate in holiday activities around town
The Woodlands Township hosts a variety of Independence Day activities, including the South County Fourth of July Parade around Market Street, themed “Splash Day” at city pools and Red, Hot and Blue Festival events taking place around the township. The day is capped by a fireworks display at 9:30 p.m. on Lake Woodlands. 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Free. Multiple locations. 281-210-3800. www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

July 4
Read with a shelter animal
The Montgomery County Animal Shelter hosts a calming alternative to local fireworks shows for its dogs and cats. Visitors can come to read a book or play music with shelter animals, and the Lone Star Animal Welfare League will offer free microchipping for pets. A barbecue meal for attendees is also provided. 6-9 p.m. $5. Montgomery County Animal Shelter, 8535 Hwy. 242, Conroe. www.mcaspets.org

July 5
Join in summer-themed children’s theater
The Woodlands Children’s Museum celebrates the spirit of summer with a Storybook Theatre session based around Tom Brenner’s book “And Then Comes Summer.” Children can participate in a reading of the book along with songs, rhymes and literacy-focused activities. 11 a.m. Free with museum admission. The Woodlands Children’s Museum, 4775 W. Panther Creek Drive, Ste. 280, The Woodlands. 281-465-0955. www.woodlandschildrensmuseum.org