Alexander City, Alabama is host to an annual boat parade for their Fourth of July celebrations and well, we're already packing our swimsuits. About an hour northeast of Montgomery, and an hour and a half southeast of Birmingham, this southern hamlet (OK, small city) is easily reached. The festivities take place on the actual Fourth, with decorated boats parading on Lake Martin donning oodles of patriotic fanfare. Registered boaters compete for top place in various categories like "largest flag" and "most creative".