It's a time for flag waving. It's a time for lights in the sky. It's a time for those three magical letters: BBQ.

The Fourth of July isn't the greatest holiday, because you don't get any presents. It also isn't the most boring, because there's something to do after dinner besides take a nap. Whether you spend the day with family or friends, Democrats or Republicans, Independence Day can be a blast.

After all...fireworks rule.

If you're not sure how to utilize your day, The Wildcat is here to make sure you don't waste it with four things to do on the fourth.

Biking to benefit

Most Fourth of July festivities begin at night or late in the day, but Tucson is offering at least one event for its early risers. And it's good for your health.

The City of Tucson Parks and Recreation Department, along with the Tucson Fire Department, has organized the 11th annual "Tour for Tucson's Children" bike race in an effort to promote bicycle safety and education for the Old Pueblo's smaller people.

"We usually raise anywhere from $10,000 to $15,000," said Jesus Grijalva, a recreation assistant with Parks and Recreation. "And proceeds go towards buying helmets for low-income youth."

Events include a 27-mile challenge ride, a seven-mile family ride, a three-mile fun run and a free half-mile kids' ride (ages six and under).

Registration fees are $20 for adults and $15 for children 18 and under. The race begins at 6 a.m. at parking lot A of the Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Ave., and ends at approximately 10 a.m.

Proceeds will benefit Tucson Safe Kids Helmet and Bike Fund. Call 791-4870 for more information.

Downtown

Club Congress will host the Fourth of July Weekend Blowout as this year's Independence Day arrives amidst country handovers and ongoing extremist attacks.

So it's only fitting that when the doors open Friday at 9 p.m., Tucsonans will get the opportunity to participate in a little "Fourth of July Jihad," headlined by the Zsa Zsas (vs. the Terrorists) with special guest Al "Qaeda" Perry.

The price: $6.

If members of the Tucson community want something a little less trigger-happy and a bit more aesthetically pleasing, there's always Saturday. Club Congress will host a free art opening and a dog show beginning at 8 p.m. called "Doug E. Weber presents 'Show Dog.'" The viewing begins at 7 p.m. and will be held in the lobby. Entertainment will be provided by the Dutchess and Roy.

But don't reach for the leash and tick brush quite yet.

"Dogs are by invitation only; otherwise is would just be chaotic," said Adrienne Lake, one of Club Congress' booking staff who plans on bringing her own dog.

At 9 p.m. in the club, the Electric Company will begin spinning vinyl with DJ Spyder Rhodes.

On Sunday, the Jons will headline a four-bands-for-four-bucks blue light special. Special guests include Mankind, the Croutons and Bombs for the Bored. Doors open at 9 p.m.

Tucson area (Sunday)

The traditional "A" Mountain fireworks display is scheduled for 8:45 p.m. Pre-show festivities will begin at 6 p.m. at the Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Ave.

Rillito Park Racetrack, 4502 N. First Ave., is also scheduled to host a fireworks show.

The racetrack will host KiiM-FM 99.5's Freedom Festival, starring Clint Black, Chely Wright, Shannon Lawson and Troy Olsen. Gates open at 2:30. Tickets cost $20 in advance, $25 on the day of the show. See http://www.kiimfm.com for more information.

The Tucson Sidewinders will take advantage of America's favorite pastime by using the Tucson Electric Park, 2500 E. Ajo Way, as a venue for a fireworks display, which will be choreographed to patriotic music.

Park gates open at 5 p.m. and the game begins at 6 p.m. General admission is $5, box seats are $8 and children under two get in free. Call Stacy at 434-1021 for more information.

The Hilton El Conquistador Resort, 10000 N. Oracle Rd., will host "Red, White and Bluegrass" on the golf course adjacent to the Last Territory Steakhouse.

The live music, contests and fireworks begin at 6 p.m. and end at 10 p.m. General admission is $10, children ages six through 12 are $5, and children under five get in free. Call 544-5000 for more information.

Anywhere

While legalized fireworks displays do it for most people, there are some who just can't get enough of throwing Black Cats into crowded living rooms or launching aerial explosives out of their hands.

If that's you, take a road trip and pick up your own firecrackers.

If you take Interstate 10 out towards New Mexico or Texas, you're bound to hit a convenience store just beyond the Arizona state line that sells pyro junk for the pyro junkie.

Pay with cash so no one can trace you should "something" happen when you get home.

Bottle rockets, M-80's, spinners, fountains and Roman candles are just some of the exciting ways to teach your children the wonders of chemical reactions. It's kind of like home schooling.

But there are some who aren't so gung-ho about taking education into their own hands. On the City of Tucson web site, Fire Chief Dan Newburn has some choice words for non-conventional teachers: "Remember, you are not only endangering your children and homes but those of your neighbors as well. Please weigh the severe risk with the benefits of a few moments of entertainment." Well said, chief.

Or just keep the kitchen extinguisher handy and make sure the water hose is ready for use. And if your car leaks gas or oil, don't light spinners anywhere near it; those little suckers have a mind of their own.