Here's how televised fireworks beat the real thing: You don't have to fight the crowds. Pyrotechnic displays look real pretty in HD. And if things get too loud, you can always hit the "mute" button. Fortunately, the networks are serving up several celebratory specials.
On NBC, we've got "The Macy's 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular" (8 p.m. Tucson time) from New York City. It features a journey through the country's musical history and includes a performance by teen heartthrob Justin Bieber. Over at CBS is "The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular" (9 p.m.) with Craig Ferguson presiding over a program that has Toby Keith delivering some of his biggest hits.
Other TV best bets:
Today: It's summertime, which makes us think of beaches and the ocean and . . . sharks. So sink your teeth into a daylong marathon of "Jaws" movies that includes Spielberg's original classic and all the mediocre sequels that followed. It started very early; tune in any time. Encore.
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Monday: We're down to just five guys on "The Bachelorette," which means we're moving much closer to the final rose ceremony and, of course, the inevitable breakup. Go, Ali! 7 p.m., ABC.
Monday: Is it OK to start laughing yet? On "Last Comic Standing," the contestants compete in the second semifinal round. Let's hope we've gotten past the terrible acts by now. 8 p.m., NBC.
Tuesday: The carnage continues on "Wipeout" as couples compete in an obstacle called Blob Launch. For some reason, that brings a demented smile to our faces. 7 p.m., ABC.
Tuesday: Season 2 of "Warehouse 13" kicks off with Pete and Myka (Eddie McClintock and Joanne Kelly) racking up more frequent-flyer miles. They're heading to London to gather clues about MacPherson's evil scheme. 9 p.m., Syfy.
Wednesday: Somehow, the new episode of "Top Chef: Washington D.C." doesn't seem all that appetizing. It has the contestants whipping up baby food for host Padma Lakshmi's newborn infant. 9 p.m., Bravo.
Thursday: "Big Brother," the show that turns a group of annoying humans into lab rats, is back to launch its 12th season. Yes, an even dozen. We can't believe it, either. 7 p.m., CBS.
Friday: The outstanding season of "Friday Night Lights" continues with more stress for Tami (Connie Britton). She's put into a tough spot by Tim (Taylor Kitsch) after an anguished Becky (Madison Burge) goes to him for help. 7 p.m., NBC.
Friday: "Haven" is a new drama series about an FBI agent (Emily Rose) with a lost past who winds up in a small Maine town where supernatural shenanigans abound. It debuts after the season premiere of "Eureka." 10 p.m., Syfy.
