We weren’t happy with the city when Marysville banned fireworks a few years ago. It felt un-patriotic.

July 4th comes but once a year, and we felt there were less-restrictive steps that could have been taken before a total ban was needed. We felt for every drunk who belligerently set off illegal fireworks there were 1,000 law-abiding citizens who responsibly shot off legal ones.

Sure, there were the complaints about noise, injuries, pets, fires, etc. But they were the same ones we’ve heard for decades. Why the ban now when none of those issues had gotten any worse? In many cases there were fewer of those problems.

And it took away much-needed income from some community service groups that sold legal fireworks. We felt it was less than honest for the city to put an “advisory” measure on the ballot that most didn’t give a second thought to and then use it as “evidence” that the community wanted a ban.

What made it even worse was the city didn’t do anything to replace it. Once again, government took away some of our individual rights and didn’t give us anything in return.

Well, now, it is – and we are exploding with enthusiasm about it.

Wednesday, the city is hosting a free 4th of July event, starting at 7 p.m. at the southern fields at Marysville-Pilchuck High School.

The highlight, of course, will be the fireworks show at dusk.

But if you like music, you are in for a treat with Baby Cakes from Bellingham – a 10-piece powerhouse of talented musicians that plays American Soul, funk and R&B. Playing everything from Wilson Pickett, Aretha Franklin, and Earth, Wind, and Fire to Beyonce and Bruno Mars, Baby Cakes is a multi-generational experience that will make you want to dance the night away.

Family activities also are on tap.

And the Marysville Kiwanis Club will be selling All-American apple pie and ice cream.

Of course during the day we suggest going to Arlington for its Old-Fashioned Fourth of July, which includes a pancake breakfast, triathlon, fun run, auction, games, parades and more. Plus fireworks are still legal in Arlington, but only on the Fourth from 9 a.m. to midnight.

And there is always Boom City on the Tulalip Reservation. Just remember you have to shoot them off there. Anywhere else and the fines are getting higher and higher – just like the fireworks explosions.