(Images: Andrew Ahlstrom and Alex Garland for CHS)

In the true spirit of America, this post is assembled annually by an algorithmically controlled robot drone that adjust for witty references to current weather conditions and are programmed for sly inclusion of timely cultural references. I’m going to take a selfie!

Capitol Hill is a hill. And because it is a hill, it rises above things that are below including Lake Union, home target of Seattle’s annual 4th of July fireworks barrage. Here are some ideas on where you can watch the display (after a day of picnicking in Cal Anderson Park) with your closest neighborhood pals without leaving said Capitol Hill. Here is what it looked like up here last year. Happy America 2014!

• The Lake Union fireworks show is slated to begin at 10:10 PM. You can tune in to Warm 106.9 FM for a simulcast or bring your own brass band.
• The prime Capitol Hill-connected viewing zone stretches along our northwest edge above Eastlake.

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• Lakeview Boulevard E., just north of the Belmont-Eastlake I-5 overpass is a great, crowded, and fun place to watch.
• Do not try to park anywhere in the area. You will fail.
• The Lakeview overpass is usually closed to cars and pedestrians during the show. This Eastlake Ave map is old (and getting older!) but it shows an overview of the streets in the area during the show:
• SPD made a special plea last year for one of the most popular western edge viewing spots:
  [O]fficers need your help keeping the intersection of Belmont Ave and Bellevue Pl. E. clear for emergency vehicles. In recent years, the intersection has become a popular spot during 4th Festivities, which is problematic as it’s also a direct link between Lakeview and South Lake Union. Please help police keep the street clear this year.
• SPD also reminds that possession of fireworks in Seattle is against the law and that police would prefer you do NOT call 911 to report fireworks and loud bangs during the holiday.

More Capitol Hill viewpoints and tips

• Nearby Bellevue Place Park
• Side streets off 10th Ave E like E Boston or E Lynn
• “There’s good views around the corner by the Roanoke. You can even cover your drinks with a coaster while you go watch the show and they’ll still be there when you get back. Also pong.”
• Various peek-a-boo views from the I-5 Shores area of the Hill
• On the east edge of the Hill around 22nd and Galer affords a view of various Eastside displays.
• Parks will leaves fields like Bobby Morris lit through the night to discourage shenanigans that would damage the artificial sports grass.
• And, no matter where you decide to watch from, remember these words of wisdom from the CHS comments: “The view here is stellar, but please don’t leave your trash all over my neighborhood when you’re done watching shit blow up.”