Best Bets: Vinton Boomtown

Vinton will be booming this weekend, with events leading up to an earthshaking pyrotechnic experience. The fun kicks off at 5 p.m. Friday with the free TGIF - Thank God It's Fireworks - Party at the Benton County Fairgrounds, featuring a beer tent, food vendors and a fireworks preview challenge. Boom-fest launches the Saturday festivities from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. downtown. Then head to the fairgrounds at 4 p.m. for the main event, with kids' games, music, food and fireworks. Leave pets and coolers at home.

Vinton Boomtown

5 p.m. Friday (8/23) preview party; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday (8/24) Boom-fest in downtown Vinton, then 4 p.m. fireworks festivities, Benton County Fairgrounds, 1801 Second Ave., Vinton; $10 admission; $10 parking; Vintonboomtown.com