Fun ways to celebrate the Fourth of July

(EndPlay Staff Reports) - The Fourth of July falls on a Wednesday this year. While some people might be lamenting about missing a long weekend, others are getting ready for a mid-week blowout.

Here are a handful of ways you can festively celebrate the Fourth, even if it is in the middle of the week.

Tune in – Celebrate the Fourth of July vicariously through the revelers in the nation's capital by watching A Capitol Fourth on PBS . This star-spangled event and concert will kick off at 8 p.m. EST.

Chill out – There's a heat wave engulfing most of the country's midsection. Celebrate Fourth of July fun and cool off at the same time by making your own frozen desserts. Check out Betty Crocker's ideas for frozen pops, or put that ice cream maker to good use with a fruity sorbet.

Feast like the founding fathers – The history books indicate the colonial diet was a bit different than what we eat today. However, Philadelphia's City Tavern Restaurant , established in 1773, still serves up some of the founding fathers' favorites. Check out their menu for inspiration when planning your own Fourth of July feast.

Celebrate with safety – If you choose to celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks, do it safely. The Better Business Bureau has compiled a list of things to keep in mind when lighting the sky on your own.

Hot dog – For some, the Fourth of July marks the dog days of summer. For others, the Fourth of July is the hot dog day of summer. Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest is held each year on July 4, and 2012 marks its 96th event. Eat a hot dog in honor of the annual competition.