On Cape Cod, the Fourth of July is an all-day affair — and this year, the nation's 250th, the Cape is pulling out the stops.

Morning: The Parades

The day begins early. The Barnstable Village parade — decorated cars, floats, and police and fire vehicles — steps off around 9 a.m. from the county courthouse complex and winds roughly a mile along historic Route 6A. Down in Cotuit, the village's famous parade follows at 11 a.m.

Afternoon: On the Water

At 2 p.m., the traditional Hyannis Harbor Boat Parade sends a procession of vessels decked in red, white, and blue around the inner harbor. Ashore, Hyannis fills the Village Green with family activities, live music along Main Street and at Aselton Park, and a Cape Cod Baseball League matchup at McKeon Park.

Night: A Drone Show, Not Fireworks

After dark, the Town of Barnstable trades the traditional fireworks display for a state-of-the-art drone show around 9:30 p.m. — roughly two dozen illuminated aerial images celebrating the Cape's history, maritime heritage, and landscapes. Organizers point to Bismore Park, Aselton Park, McKeon Park, and the Harbor Overlook for the best views.

Times are drawn from published schedules and can change; confirm with the Town of Barnstable and the Cape Cod Chamber before you go.

Sources: Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce; Town of Barnstable; Barnstable eNews.