NATCHEZ — Fourth of July weekend is legendary in the Miss-Lou for its food, fireworks and festivities, and this year promises to be just as spectacular as those in years past.

On Friday, the celebration will begin with a Family Fun Day at the Vidalia Riverfront Amphitheatre at 10 a.m.

There will be food, live bands, entertainment for children and a watermelon-eating contest. A karaoke contest will begin at 6 p.m.

The family fun will continue Saturday at 10 a.m. with the same attractions as Friday, plus more bands giving live performances.

Admission is $12 per child.

Aside from the Family Fun Day, Saturday is packed with activities.

The annual Lake St. John Flotilla is back and should be just as spectacular as ever.

Registration for the flotilla will begin at 9 a.m. and costs $10 per boat.

Burgers will be sold on the Duck’s Nest II pier.

Flotilla chairman Donna Maroon said the parade would begin at the north end of the lake at 3 p.m. with the blessing of the fleet.

The parade has no particular theme this year and boats will be judged in four categories: large patriotic craft, large non-patriotic craft, small craft and an overall winner.

Door prizes are available for those who participate in the parade including gift certificates, tee shirts and posters.

Fireworks begin at 9 p.m. on the lake.

Maroon said all are welcome, and the Spokane Resort pier will be open for parade watchers.

“I just love seeing the people that come out,” Maroon said. “They just love it.”

Also on Saturday night, Fireworks on the Mississippi River, put on by the Natchez First Radio Group, should begin at about 9 p.m.

The display is set to last about 20 minutes.

The fireworks will be set off on a barge in the middle of the river, so the bursts of color will be visible from both sides of the river.

Organizer René Adams said anyone is welcome to come and watch from either riverfront.

“I love the show because it brings the community together,” Adams said. “It’s amazing how many people line up on the bluff on the Natchez side and the Vidalia side to watch.”