Local park = better fireworks experience

So, we ended up doing something brand new and TOTALLY COOL for the holiday tonight. It all began with a vague memory I had from a friend of a friend mentioning in passing that fireworks were launched from the railroad park around the corner from our house. At the time, obviously, I didn't put much thought to it, but did appreciate the information enough to file it in my head somewhere under "Fireworks, Local." So as Brian and I discussed our plan for tonight, and how we really, really did not want to drive into Tempe, I made the random mention of fireworks at the railroad park. I called the park to confirm, and yes, they would be shooting off the fireworks after their "Concert in the Park."
We packed up the bag of towels, a bunch of water, snacks, the camera, and technological distractions. The parking situation made us a little nervous, in that we had to park a ways from the park, but it ended up being a real parking spot in a real parking lot, so there was no complaining. The park itself, once we got to the enormous grassy knoll that hosted the concert and the audience, was packed with people, but not too much that we couldn't find somewhere to settle. I spread out our two towels, and we sat, prepared to enjoy the festivities. The band was great, covering tunes from Lynard Skynard, Neil Diamond and Journey, among others. (Their set started at 7:30 p.m., but we didn't get there until closer to 8:15 p.m.) And when they were done, at 9 p.m., we (the audience and band) counted down to the launch of the fireworks. And it was on time!
Not only were the fireworks on time, more numerous than I figured, and beautiful, but the entire evening was far superior to the Tempe experience. The grass made for a MUCH cooler sitting venue, as well as a more comfortable perch than just a towel over dirt. Also, grass kept dust clouds from rising, obviously, every time someone walked by. The people were chill and relaxed, and singing along with the music. It was really pretty awesome.
From now on, we've decided, we're never going back to Tempe. This was a much better July Fourth than last year! Much less painful, and much better on us as old, married people with a little kid. Loved it!! Count us in for next year!!