New Orleans and nearby parishes prepare for a vibrant Independence Day weekend with ESSENCE Fest, riverfront fireworks, festivals, parades and more.

The Fourth of July comes with fireworks shows and revelry across the New Orleans metro. The big picture: It's a busy weekend all around with Essence Fest also taking place across downtown. Be smart: It's illegal for residents to shoot fireworks in Orleans Parish and most of Jefferson Parish.

Officials with the City of New Orleans have released updates for public safety and preparedness ahead of the Fourth of July and the Essence Festival of Culture, which are expected to draw crowds to the city from Thursday,