Communities in and around Charlotte are kicking off Independence Day celebrations early with fireworks and festivities planned for tonight.

The annual Independence Day fireworks spectacular returns from at Voinovich Park in downtown Cleveland. The event includes face painting, balloon twisting, bubbles, crafts, food trucks, CLE Cotton Candy and DJ Smillz with a fireworks spectacular beginning at dusk.

Additional safety measures include adjusting daily routines by walking dogs and feeding them earlier in the evening, bringing them inside before fireworks begin. For anxious pets, anti-anxiety wraps or tightly fitting T-shirts can provide comfort similar to swaddling a baby, though Richards advises testing these solutions before the holiday.