12 Festive Activities For 4Th Of July In Orlando

things to do for 4th of july in orlando

The 4th of July is a day for fireworks, barbecues, and all things American! If you happen to be in Orlando, Florida this Independence Day, you're in luck because the city is bursting with patriotic celebrations. Whether you're a local or tourist, there is something for everyone to enjoy from live music, parades to firework shows. We have compiled a list of 12 festive activities for 4th of July in Orlando that will make your holiday unforgettable! So put on your red, white, and blue, and let's get into the spirit of things!

Activity Description
Fireworks at Lake Eola Enjoy a festive night of fireworks, music, and food trucks at Lake Eola.
Patriot's Pointe Celebration How about joining the city of Clermont for a day full of live music, food, and a stunning fireworks display at night?
Red, White & Brew at the Orlando Brewing If you're a beer enthusiast, join the Orlando Brewing for a patriotic party with beers, food trucks, and live music.
Celebration of Freedom at the Waterford Lakes Town Center This family-friendly event offers live entertainment, vendors, and a magnificent fireworks display at night.
Fireworks at Kissimmee Lakefront Park Join the city of Kissimmee for a spectacular fireworks display, delicious food, and live entertainment.
Oviedo 4th of July Celebration Hosted by the city of Oviedo, this event features a parade, carnival rides, games, and a fireworks show.
BBQ at Leu Gardens Spend the day enjoying delicious barbecue, lawn games, and live music in the stunning Leu Gardens.
4th of July Block Party at Thornton Park Join the party at Thornton Park with live music, drinks, and delicious food from local restaurants.

quartzmountain

Fireworks at Lake Eola Park

Fireworks
Source: Click Orlando

As the summer heat sweeps through Orlando, the city is gearing up for one of its biggest events of the year – the Fourth of July celebrations. And if you're wondering what to do for this July 4th, look no further than Lake Eola Park. This year, the park is hosting an explosive fireworks show that is guaranteed to light up the night sky and bring families and friends together for a memorable experience.

Lake Eola Park is one of the most beautiful and historic parks in Orlando, situated in the heart of downtown between Thornton Park and the Central Business District. For more than 40 years, the park has been a hub for local residents and tourists, attracting over a million visitors annually. With its 43-acre lake, swan-shaped paddle boats, and iconic fountain, the park is a go-to spot for picnics, jogging, and enjoying the scenic views.

But on July 4th, the park is transformed into a festival of patriotism and excitement. Each year, hundreds of Orlando residents flock to the park with their families and friends, dressed in red, white, and blue, to enjoy a day filled with fun activities, live music, and tasty food trucks.

At 9pm, the fireworks show begins, and the park is illuminated with a spectacular show of colors and sounds. The captivating fireworks display lasts for almost 25 minutes, synchronized to patriotic music that will leave you feeling proud to be an American. The best spots to catch the fireworks are around the lake, so be sure to arrive early to secure your spot.

So, if you're looking for a memorable way to celebrate the 4th of July in Orlando, head to Lake Eola Park for an evening of patriotic festivities and a spectacular fireworks show. Make sure to pack some snacks, sunscreen, and your favorite blankets to sit on. Whether you're a local resident or a tourist just passing through, you'll surely leave with great memories that will last a lifetime.

13 Fun Things to Do in Chadds Ford, PA

You may want to see also

quartzmountain

Patriotic Parade in downtown Orlando

Patriotic
Source: Jeeves: Luxury Villas in Orlando, FL

Are you looking for the perfect way to celebrate the 4th of July in Orlando? Look no further than the Patriotic Parade in downtown Orlando – a fun and festive event for all ages!

The parade kicks off at 9 am on July 4th, and is a celebration of the United States and all things patriotic. You can expect to see a wide variety of floats and performers, all decked out in red, white, and blue. From marching bands to dancers, colorful balloons to impressive floats, there is sure to be something for everyone at this exciting event.

For families with young children, the Patriotic Parade is a great way to introduce them to the traditions and symbols of America. They'll love seeing the American flag waving proudly in the wind and hearing the sounds of patriotic music filling the air. The parade is also a great opportunity for kids to get creative and make their own patriotic decorations to wave along with the crowds.

But it's not just families that will enjoy the Patriotic Parade – anyone who loves a good celebration should make it a priority this 4th of July. The atmosphere is electric as people from all walks of life come together to celebrate what makes America great. Whether you're a proud veteran, a recent immigrant, or just someone who loves freedom and democracy, you'll feel right at home in this crowd.

The parade route runs through the heart of downtown Orlando, so you'll have plenty of opportunities to explore the city while you're there. You can check out some of the nearby shops and restaurants, or take a stroll through Lake Eola Park. And of course, there will be plenty of food and refreshments available along the parade route – so be sure to come hungry!

All in all, the Patriotic Parade in downtown Orlando is a can't-miss event this 4th of July. So gather up your family and friends, deck yourselves out in your most patriotic gear, and come join the fun!

quartzmountain

4th of July BBQ at Disney World

4th
Source: Disney Tourist Blog

Are you looking for something fun to do on the 4th of July in Orlando? Look no further than Disney World, where they host an annual 4th of July BBQ celebration.

This event is held at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground, and it's a great way to spend the holiday with family and friends. The BBQ starts at 7pm and features an all-you-can-eat buffet with classic American cuisine such as BBQ chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs, and all of the sides you could think of.

There are also plenty of fun activities for kids to enjoy, including face painting, balloon twisting, and a Disney DJ will be providing entertainment for everyone, so you can dance the night away under the stars.

When the sun sets, make sure to stick around for the spectacular fireworks display, set to patriotic music and lighting up the night sky like only Disney can.

Tickets for the 4th of July BBQ at Disney World usually sell out fast, so be sure to make your reservations early. Not only is this a great way to celebrate Independence Day, but it's also a unique and unforgettable way to experience Disney World. So pack your picnic blanket, grab your sunglasses, and get ready to have the time of your life at Disney World's 4th of July BBQ.

14 Fun Things to Do at Callaway Gardens

You may want to see also

quartzmountain

Red, White, and BBQ at Aquatica

Red
Source: Attraction Tickets Direct

Are you looking for a perfect way to celebrate the Fourth of July in Orlando? Look no further because Red, White, and BBQ at Aquatica is here to offer you an unforgettable experience. Aquatica, the popular water park, is hosting a special event this Independence Day, and you won't want to miss it.

What's more, there will be mouth-watering BBQ and grilled specialties that you can indulge in as you bask in the sunshine. The smells will beckon you to the Smokehouse Grill, where you can enjoy juicy and tender meat, mouth-watering sides, and icy cold drinks.

As you enjoy the food and drinks, you can groove to the live DJ spinning tunes that will keep you moving. There will also be live bands throughout the day keeping the atmosphere festive.

But wait, there's more! Don't miss the Aquatica countdown to the Independence Day fireworks show – the perfect way to wrap up an incredible day. The fireworks display is one of the highlights of the Red, White, and BBQ event.

Admission to Red, White, and BBQ at Aquatica is included with the regular park admission, making it an affordable and accessible option for everybody. You can purchase tickets online or at the park, but it is recommended to buy them in advance to avoid the queue.

The event runs from 10 am to 9 pm, so you'll have all day to enjoy the rides, food, and entertainment before reveling in the fireworks at nightfall. So, grab your towel, sunscreen, and spf Swimwear, and head over to Aquatica for a fun-filled celebration of Independence Day.

In conclusion, Red, White, and BBQ at Aquatica is the perfect way to celebrate the Fourth of July in Orlando. You can enjoy water fun, delicious food, live entertainment, and a fireworks display all in one event! Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience and make sure to mark your calendars to attend this year.

14 Fun Things to Do in Gurnee, Illinois

You may want to see also

quartzmountain

Star Spangled Skies celebration at Old Town

Star
Source: Orlando Sentinel

If you're looking for something special to do on the 4th of July in Orlando, then the Star Spangled Skies celebration at Old Town is the perfect event for you. This family-friendly event is a great way to celebrate the nation's birthday with your loved ones. Here is everything you need to know about this event.

Old Town is a charming outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment destination that has been around for over 30 years. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and it's particularly popular on the 4th of July. The Star Spangled Skies celebration is one of the biggest events of the year at Old Town.

The event starts at 5 pm on the 4th of July and goes on until 11 pm. There's no better way to kick off the festivities than with a classic car show. You'll see some of the finest vintage and custom cars in the area. Once you've had your fill of car sightings and selfies, there's plenty more to do.

Throughout the evening, live music will provide the soundtrack for the event. There will also be plenty of food and drinks to keep you fueled up as you enjoy all of the activities offered. Craft vendors will offer their wares- fine crafts, handmade jewelry, and customized clothing.

The highlight of the evening, of course, is the fireworks show, which starts at 9:15 pm. You won't want to miss it. The fireworks show is a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you awe-struck. There are plenty of places to set up your lawn chairs and blankets to watch the show from.

Tickets are not required for this event. However, if you want a VIP experience, you can purchase a VIP package that lets you enjoy the fireworks show from a VIP seating area. You'll also get access to the VIP lounge, which includes free drinks, food, and a private viewing area.

In conclusion, if you're looking for something fun and memorable to do on the 4th of July in Orlando, the Star Spangled Skies celebration at Old Town is definitely worth checking out. Bring your family and friends, and enjoy all the activities and entertainment the event has to offer. It's an experience you won't forget!

quartzmountain

4th of July fireworks at SeaWorld

4th
Source: SeaWorld

Looking for the perfect way to celebrate the 4th of July in Orlando? Look no further than the 4th of July fireworks display at SeaWorld!

For the many who love an unforgettable fireworks display, SeaWorld is the place to be on Independence Day. Guests can enjoy a stunning spectacle of patriotic pyrotechnics, accompanied by classic American tunes. The show starts at 9:00 PM and lasts for about 15 minutes.

But that's not all—SeaWorld offers plenty of other activities and entertainment on the 4th of July. During the day, visitors can experience the park's thrilling rides, including the Manta roller coaster and the Kraken. There'll also be plenty of opportunities to interact with the park's marine life, from feeding stingrays to watching sharks. Little ones will love the Sesame Street Land and Bay of Play, filled with pint-sized rides, playgrounds, and fun shows.

As night falls, the 4th of July fireworks show will light up the sky. The show is set to a patriotic score, with vibrant fireworks bursting over the park's iconic attractions. There is simply no better way to cap off a Fourth of July spent in Orlando.

Keep in mind that to participate in this event, guests must have access to the SeaWorld park. Tickets are available for purchase online or at the park's entrance. It is also worth noting that for this event, the park does not allow outside food or drinks, chairs, or coolers. So, be sure to grab delicious American eats and drinks before the show to avoid any disappointment.

In conclusion, the 4th of July fireworks at SeaWorld is undoubtedly one of the best ways you can celebrate Independence Day in Orlando. With tons of activities to enjoy during the day, capped off by a magnificent fireworks display, it is something that you do not want to miss! Hurry and get your tickets today for a fun and patriotic 4th of July in Orlando!

quartzmountain

Freedom Fest at Cranes Roost Park

Freedom
Source: Gotta Go Orlando

The 4th of July is one of the biggest holidays in the United States, and there are few places that celebrate it better than Orlando, Florida! This year, one of the best events to check out is the Freedom Fest at Cranes Roost Park.

Located in Altamonte Springs, just outside of downtown Orlando, Cranes Roost Park is a beautiful outdoor space that's perfect for a summertime celebration. The park spans over 45 acres and features a scenic lake, walking trails, picnic areas, and plenty of green space for families and friends to gather and enjoy the festivities.

At Freedom Fest, visitors can expect a wide variety of activities and entertainment. For starters, there will be a full schedule of live music and performances throughout the day, with local acts taking the stage to showcase their talents. There will also be food and drink vendors on hand, serving up delicious eats and refreshing beverages to keep guests fueled throughout the day.

One of the highlights of Freedom Fest is the annual fireworks display, which is set to light up the sky over Cranes Roost Park starting at 9:30 pm. This pyrotechnic extravaganza is widely considered one of the best fireworks displays in the region, and it's sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

In addition to the fireworks, visitors can also enjoy a host of other fun activities at the festival. There will be a kids' zone with carnival games and inflatables, as well as a showcase of local vendors selling arts, crafts, and other unique goods. Overall, Freedom Fest offers a little something for everyone, making it a perfect way to celebrate Independence Day with family and friends.

Admission to Freedom Fest at Cranes Roost Park is free and open to the public. Parking is available on-site for a fee, or visitors can take advantage of free shuttle service from a nearby parking lot. The park opens at 4:00 pm, and the event will last until the fireworks show ends.

If you're looking for the perfect way to celebrate the 4th of July in Orlando, be sure to check out Freedom Fest at Cranes Roost Park. With great entertainment, delicious food, and an incredible fireworks display, it's sure to be a day you won't forget!

quartzmountain

Red, White, and Boom at Waterford Lakes

Red
Source: Orlando Weekly

Thinking of ways to celebrate the 4th of July in Orlando? Consider heading to Waterford Lakes for their explosive Red, White, and Boom event! This annual celebration is the perfect way to honor America's independence with family and friends. Here are some highlights of this year's event.

The Festivities:

The Fireworks:

The highlight of the Red, White, and Boom event is the dazzling fireworks display that illuminates the sky at dusk. This year, the fireworks will be presented by Pyrotecnico, one of the country's leading firework companies. Get ready for an unforgettable display that will light up the night sky and fill your heart with pride.

The Location:

Waterford Lakes is the perfect location for the event - with a large open area, it offers plenty of space for everyone. The festivities will take place at the Waterford Lakes Town Center, located off of Alafaya Trail. Parking is free, so make sure to arrive early to claim a spot.

The Safety Measures:

With the ongoing pandemic, the event planners have taken necessary measures to ensure the safety of all attendees. The event will offer sanitization stations throughout the area, and all participating vendors and staff will be following guidelines as recommended by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Attendees are encouraged to follow social distancing guidelines and wear face masks for their safety and the safety of others.

This year's Red, White, and Boom event is a fantastic way to pay tribute to our country's independence and enjoy time with family and friends. From the exciting entertainment to the brilliant fireworks, it surely will be a day you won't forget. Don't miss it - mark July 4th on your calendar and head to Waterford Lakes for a memorable celebration!

quartzmountain

4th of July Block Party at Wall Street Plaza

4th
Source: Orlando Weekly

Are you looking for a fun and exciting way to celebrate Independence Day in Orlando this year? Look no further than the 4th of July Block Party at Wall Street Plaza.

This event takes place on the evening of July 4th and features a variety of activities, food vendors, and live music. The party stretches across Wall Street Plaza, giving attendees plenty of space to enjoy the festivities.

One of the highlights of the 4th of July Block Party is the live music. There will be multiple stages set up throughout the plaza showcasing a range of genres, from rock and roll to country. The musical lineup includes popular local bands and established performers from around the country.

Of course, no Independence Day celebration is complete without fireworks, and the 4th of July Block Party delivers in a big way. The fireworks show will be visible from multiple vantage points throughout the plaza and is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

In addition to the music and fireworks, the event features a variety of food vendors selling everything from classic American fare like hot dogs and hamburgers to more exotic options like Korean BBQ and Thai street food. There will also be plenty of cold drinks available to help beat the heat.

As if that wasn't enough, the 4th of July Block Party also includes a variety of fun activities for all ages. From face painting and balloon animal-making for the kids to cornhole tournaments and beer pong competitions for the adults, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

This year's event is expected to draw a large crowd, so be sure to arrive early to secure your spot. Admission is free, so there's no reason not to come out and celebrate America's birthday in style at the 4th of July Block Party at Wall Street Plaza.

13 Must-See Attractions in Manchester CA

You may want to see also

quartzmountain

4th of July Celebration at Baldwin Park

4th
Source: Orlando Weekly

As America celebrates Independence Day, Orlando is no exception. The city is one of the most exciting places to be when it comes to celebrating the 4th of July. There are several things to do in Orlando on this day, but the 4th of July Celebration at Baldwin Park stands out from the rest.

Baldwin Park is one of Orlando's trendy neighborhoods that offers an ideal location for family fun at any time of the year. On July 4th, this community comes alive with festivities that cater to all age groups. There's something for everyone. The annual event is known for its colorful fireworks display, live music, food trucks, and other fun activities.

The party starts at 5:30 pm and goes until 9:30 pm. Admission is free, and parking is readily available. The event is located in Baldwin Park Village Center on New Broad St. and Lower Park Road, Orlando, FL 32814. The Village Center is wheelchair accessible and provides ample space for guests to enjoy the festivities comfortably.

Entertainment for the night includes live music performances from nationally recognized acts that will keep your heart racing and your feet dancing. You can choose to sit and watch or join the many revelers on the dance floor. The kids won't be left out. There are plenty of activities tailored for them, including face painting, balloon artistry, games, and giveaways.

Foodies will enjoy the numerous food vendors that offer a wide variety of cuisine that is sure to satisfy any palate. Guests can choose from the delicious burger vendors, refreshing ice cream stands, fresh popcorn, and so much more. The food trucks and vendors will allow you to sample flavors from all over the world.

Of course, no Fourth of July celebration would be complete without the incredible fireworks display. The Baldwin Park fireworks are among the most impressive in Orlando. The night sky is transformed into a dazzling spectacle of colors and lights that leave guests in awe. The fireworks start at around 9:15 pm and last for approximately 20 minutes. It's a perfect way to round off an unforgettable night.

In conclusion, the 4th of July Celebration at Baldwin Park is a fantastic way to spend this important holiday. Whether you come alone or with family and friends, the event has something for everyone. With activities for kids, live music, delicious food, and an incredible fireworks display, Baldwin Park is the place to be on the 4th of July. So mark your calendar, pack a picnic blanket, and come be a part of this incredible celebration!

13 Fun Things to Do in Aberdeen, NC

You may want to see also

quartzmountain

Independence Day Street Party in Winter Park

Independence
Source: Visit Orlando

As Independence Day approaches, people start to plan their celebrations. Fortunately, Orlando has many events and activities that promise to make your 4th of July memorable. One of the best events happening in the city is the Independence Day Street Party in Winter Park.

Winter Park is an upscale neighborhood located just outside of Orlando. This picturesque part of town is known for its cobblestone streets, oak trees, and boutique shops. On the 4th of July, the town turns into a colorful party. From 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, visitors can enjoy live music, food trucks, and all sorts of activities.

The street party spans the length of Park Avenue, the main thoroughfare in Winter Park. You can walk around, admire the historic buildings, and discover the quaint shops. There will be sidewalk sales and special discounts on Independence Day, so you can score some unique souvenirs.

At the heart of the event is the live music program. Local bands will play on a stage set up near the train station. You can bring a blanket, find a spot on the grass, and enjoy the tunes. From country to rock to pop, the musicians will keep you entertained all day long.

If you're hungry, you can sample the food from the trucks parked near the stage. The selection includes BBQ, pizza, tacos, ice cream, and more. You can wash down your meal with lemonade, beer, or soda.

The Independence Day Street Party in Winter Park is perfect for families with kids. There will be bounce houses, face painting, and games for children. They can join the fun and burn off energy while parents watch the performances.

In the evening, the party moves to the nearby Central Park. The annual 4th of July Celebration in Central Park includes a concert by the Bach Festival Brass Band and the Bach Festival Choir. The music starts at 8:00 pm and ends with a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Osceola. The show is visible from most parts of Winter Park, so you can find a spot to watch.

In conclusion, if you're in Orlando on the 4th of July, don't miss the Independence Day Street Party in Winter Park. This event offers something for everyone and creates a festive atmosphere that will make you proud to be an American.

12 Fun Indoor Activities in Gatlinburg

You may want to see also

quartzmountain

Stars and Stripes Celebration at Universal CityWalk

Stars
Source: WDW News Today

The Fourth of July is a celebration that is greatly cherished in the United States and cities all across the country host memorable events for their residents. If you’re spending the holiday in Orlando, a city that is well-known for its entertainment and theme parks, you’ll be delighted to learn about the "Stars and Stripes Celebration" at Universal CityWalk.

The "Stars and Stripes Celebration" is an annual event that attracts locals and tourists from all around the city. The three-day event kicks off on July 3rd and runs through to July 5th. It features live shows, outdoor dining, and exciting activities for all ages. From delicious food to stunning fireworks, it’s an experience you do not want to miss.

Starting at 5 pm each day, CityWalk’s restaurants and bars will offer an extensive selection of food and drinks. You'll find everything from classic American barbeque to festive drinks in red, white, and blue hues. Outdoor seating is available to ensure that visitors can have a good view of all the activities happening around them.

Throughout the three-day event, there will be live music performances from some of the best bands in the country. This year, there will be performances from DJ M-Squared, FILMORE, and Rico Monaco Band, among others. Traditional and modern patriotic songs will be played, and guests can sing along and show their love for their country.

Arguably, the climax of the event is the fireworks show, which is scheduled to start each night at 9:30 pm. Universal CityWalk’s fireworks display is one of the most impressive in the city, and you don’t have to be in the Universal theme park to experience it. You can watch the fireworks from anywhere in CityWalk or enjoy them from a nearby viewing area.

While the "Stars and Stripes Celebration" at Universal CityWalk is free to attend, it’s essential to note that parking rates apply. Therefore, it’s advisable to arrive early or use public transportation to avoid the frustration of looking for parking spots.

In conclusion, if you're looking for things to do for the Fourth of July in Orlando, then attending the "Stars and Stripes Celebration" at Universal CityWalk is an excellent option. From the delicious food, great music, and unforgettable fireworks display, it’s one of the best events to commemorate the holiday. Don't forget your American flag and patriotic outfits to show your pride for the red, white, and blue as you enjoy the celebrations!

Frequently asked questions

Some popular places for fireworks displays in Orlando on the 4th of July include Fireworks at the Fountain in Downtown Orlando, Red Hot & Boom in Altamonte Springs, and the Celebration of Freedom event in Winter Springs.

Yes, there are several outdoor activities and festivals in Orlando on the 4th of July, including the Baldwin Park Independence Day Bash, the Avalon Park 4th of July Spectacular, and the Lake Nona Independence Day Celebration.

Other family-friendly activities to do in Orlando on the 4th of July include visiting one of the many theme parks, going to a ball game, enjoying a fireworks boat tour, or having a picnic at a park like Lake Eola or Wekiwa Springs State Park.

Yes, Disney World typically has special fireworks displays on the 4th of July and other patriotic events throughout the park. However, it is important to check the park's schedule and make sure to arrive early as the parks tend to get crowded on holidays.

Depending on the location of your hotel, it is possible to watch the fireworks from your room. Hotels that offer views of the firework displays include the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, and the Hyatt Regency Orlando.

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

4 Comments

AM

Amaya Barrera

Orlando is such a great place to celebrate the 4th of July! One of my favorite things to do is to watch the fireworks at Lake Eola Park. The atmosphere is so festive and there are always food trucks and live music. It's the perfect way to spend the evening with family and friends. Another fun activity is to visit one of the many water parks in Orlando. They usually have special Independence Day events and it's a great way to cool off from the summer heat. Can't wait for the 4th of July in Orlando!
Thank you for sharing your love for celebrating the 4th of July in Orlando! Watching the fireworks at Lake Eola Park sounds like an incredible way to enjoy the festive atmosphere. It's great to hear that there are food trucks and live music to enhance the experience. Visiting one of the water parks in Orlando sounds like a fun and refreshing way to beat the summer heat while celebrating Independence Day. It's awesome that they have special events for the holiday. I hope you have an amazing time on the 4th of July in Orlando!
BR

Bryan Brennan

I've been living in Orlando for a few years now and the 4th of July celebrations here are always amazing. Last year, I went to the Fireworks at the Fountain event and it was fantastic. The fireworks display was beautiful and the park was packed with families having picnics and playing games. It was such a fun and patriotic atmosphere. Another thing I love to do is visit the theme parks during Independence Day. They always have special firework shows and themed events. It's definitely a memorable way to celebrate the 4th of July in Orlando!
I'm so glad to hear that you've been enjoying the 4th of July celebrations in Orlando! The Fireworks at the Fountain event sounds absolutely incredible. There's something magical about watching a spectacular fireworks display with a crowd of patriotic families. It must have been such a fun and festive atmosphere! And visiting the theme parks during Independence Day sounds like a fantastic way to celebrate as well. I can only imagine how amazing it must be to see the special firework shows and experience the themed events. It sounds like you've had some truly memorable 4th of July experiences in Orlando!

Leave a comment