Ready to get this year's Independence Day party started early?

Check out some of the pre-Independence Day events across and near Gwinnett County.

The Independence Day Bash at the Norcross Historic District tonight will serve up music, magicians and clowns —- even before the fireworks —- in an event billed as being for the whole family.

Lawrenceville is offering an evening with a dramatic flair: the Aurora Theatre's performance of "Crazy for You!"

The Gainesville Symphony Orchestra's "Patriotic Pops" will stir up national pride with performances of "Stars and Stripes Forever" and other classic and contemporary songs.

The Army Ground Forces Rock band will light up the stage at Scott Hudgens Park in Duluth, along with local musician Nick Pallas. And special visitors will be dropping by the park —- literally. The U.S. Special Operations Command Parachute Team will make an entrance out of the sky.

You can jam with the Dave Matthews Tribute Band at Sparks in the Park 2008 in Sugar Hill. Afterward, catch a flick in the park. So if you are itching to do more than stock up on hot dogs and potato salad, grab some lawn chairs and check out the patriotic revelries.

TONIGHT'S HOLIDAY EVENTS

Independence Day Bash

Activities: Fireworks, food, games and rides for the family and live music with soloist Kelli Hall at 4:30 p.m., blues band Naked Hearts at 5:45 p.m. and classic rock band The Woody's at 7:45 p.m. Also performances by magicians and clowns. Free.

Time: 4:30-10 p.m.

Location: Norcross Historic District, South Peachtree Street at Jones Street

Tip: Timing coincides with downtown Norcross' "First Thursday" event. Shops and restaurants will have special offerings and entertainment.

Info: Call 770-448-2122 or visit www.norcrossga.net

Prelude to the 4th

Activities: The Aurora Theatre will perform an adaptation of Gershwin's 1930 musical "Girl Crazy." Free. Catered table also available, reservations for six costs $150.

Time: 5:30 p.m. seats open; 7:30 p.m. show starts

Location: Gwinnett Historic Courthouse lawn, 185 Crogan St., Lawrenceville

Info: Call 678-226-2639 or visit www.visitlawrenceville.com

Patriotic Pops

Activities: Gainesville Symphony Orchestra performs a program of classical and contemporary patriotic music including the "Armed Forces Salute," "Stars and Stripes Forever," "American Frontier Medley," and "Liberty Bell March." $27 adult; $24 senior citizens; $12 students.

Time: 6:30 p.m. gates open; 8 p.m. concert

Location: Brenau University's Owens Student Center, 500 Washington St., Gainesville

Tip: Bring lawn chairs

Info: Call 770-532-5727 or visit www.gsomusic.com

Duluth Celebrates America

Activities: The U.S. Special Operations Command Parachute Team will drop by. Live performances by local artist Nick Pallas and the Army Ground Forces Rock band. Food, drinks, fireworks display. Free.

Time: 6 p.m.

Location: Scott Hudgens Park, 4545 Rivergreen Parkway, Duluth

Tip: Bring blankets or lawn chairs

Info: Call 678-475-3512 or visit www.duluth-ga.com

Sparks in the Park 2008

Activities: Live entertainment from the Dave Matthews Tribute Band, inflatables, food and drinks vendors. Fireworks begin at 9:45 p.m., followed by a movie: "Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer." Free.

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Location: E.E. Robinson Park, Level Creek Road, Sugar Hill

Tip: Parking and trams available at Sugar Hill Elementary and The Family Church beginning 6:15 p.m. Service runs till midnight.

Info: Call 770-831-7413 or visit www.cityofsugarhill.com