And don't forget there are more than two choices...

If you are not up to dealing with the family, how about finding a friend to spend the holiday with?

If you don't want to socialize, how about having a friend come over and stay with you. You could watch fireworks on TV together.

And if you simply feel pressure being around people you know, find a community event to attend. While I was in Pittsburgh, I used to go the the three rivers "Point" park on the fourth... the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra perfomed live, a good selection of classical and "popular" favorites (including some Sousa marches) and finally after sunset, the 1812 Overture (with real canons!) leading into the fireworks.

I always felt good going there alone or with friends... I could spend the whole day there, enjoying the water and the breeze, and have a good space for when the concert started.

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--http://www.idexter.com