SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - It's going to be a busy day in Springfield this Thursday with the biggest July 4th celebration in Hampden County taking center stage. Planning to travel for 4th of July? Tips ahead of busiest travel day Thousands of people in western Massachusetts will hit the highways to celebrate the holiday. Many planning on driving to Riverfront Park for Star Spangled Springfield. And for those planning to do so, Spirit of Springfield President Judy Matt shared some of the best places to park to watch the show. "291 south or north because if you go to south you can actually pull your car up to the side and listen," said Matt. "Turn your radio on and listen to the simulcast while you're watching the fireworks." The Memorial Bridge closes Wednesday night at 11 p.m. for Star Spangled Springfield preparations and will stay closed until Thursday night. Drivers are being asked to seek an alternative route. William Alston of Springfield, who's been attending the annual celebration for years, told 22News he encourages people to plan ahead. "Come a little early and probably park a little ways away and then walk in... not too far, maybe park at the casino." Other local residents say they will avoid driving and get their steps in before the fireworks. "Staying home with my kids, we are fortunate enough to see all of this happening from my fourth floor," said Muriel Alicea of Springfield. If you're planning to watch from far or up close, the fireworks light up at 9:30 p.m. So if you're hitting the roads, state officials are reminding drivers to be patient and lookout for pedestrians. And if you're traveling this Sunday, AAA says plan ahead. The busiest times to be on the roads are between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Local News Final preparations underway for Star Spangled Springfield LIST: These stores, restaurants are open on July 4 this year Fire officials: Stay safe, be courteous during July 4th celebrations Downtown expected to be busy for Springfield’s July 4 celebration WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.