New Orleans and nearby parishes prepare for a vibrant Independence Day weekend with ESSENCE Fest, riverfront fireworks, festivals, parades and more.

The Fourth of July comes with fireworks shows and revelry across the New Orleans metro. The big picture: It's a busy weekend all around with Essence Fest also taking place across downtown. Be smart: It's illegal for residents to shoot fireworks in Orleans Parish and most of Jefferson Parish.

Those who can't make the fireworks spectacular in person can catch the show on live TV, airing locally on WHDH from 7-10 p.m. and nationally on The CW Network from 9-10 p.m. Contributing: Bailey Allen,