It’s going to be a busy holiday weekend in New Orleans, with fireworks on the river and the Essence Music Festival taking over the Mercedes Benz Superdome.

Prince to headline Essence Music Festival 2014 in New Orleans.

For a traditional Fourth of July celebration, look no further than the annual Go 4th on the River celebration along the Mississippi River.

You can even view the firework display from the Steamboat Natchez and the Creole Queen, with cruises that include views on the fireworks show on the Mississippi, dinner, and live entertainment.

The fireworks show will begin at 9 p.m. and last for 15 to 20 minutes. The free dueling barges fireworks display can be viewed from both sides of the river. For an even greater show, don’t forget to bring your radios to the Riverfront and tune in to either WWL 870 AM, WWL-FM, WWL.com, or Magic 101.9 FM, for patriotic music synchronized to the fireworks display.

When it comes to Essence Fest, there are so many musical choices that you really can’t go wrong. If you want to stick just to local entertainers (but don’t skip Prince!), you will not be disappointed.

Ledisi will take the main stage on Saturday, July 5, at 7:45 p.m. In the Superlounge, Big Sam’s Funky Nation will take the stage on Saturday, July 5, at 7:15 p.m., Kourtney Heart will perform on  another Superlounge stage on Saturday at 7:25 p.m., the Original Pinettes Brass Band will take the stage on 7:15 p.m. on Sunday, July 6, and rapper August Alsina will will close things out for local performers Sunday, July 6, at 8:25 p.m.

No matter where you turn this July 4th Weekend, there will be plenty to do. Remember to wear your red, white, and blue!