The Fourth of July weekend normally means lots of food, plenty of parties and bad decisions with fireworks. But how about some good decisions with stand-up comedy? There are plenty of good options this weekend, and many venues are open on July 4 as well. Here are your best bets this week:
Christian Finnegan at Tampa Improv. Finnegan's a familiar face for those who watch comedy on television, and his stand-up features plenty of wit and clever material. It's not always politically correct, but it's intelligent all the same.
Note: Only one show (at 10 p.m.) on July 4. Showtimes are Thursday at 8 p.m., Friday at 10:00 p.m., Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. and Sunday at 7 p.m. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa. Info: improvtampa.com or 813-864-4000.
Spanky Brown at Side Splitters. Brown, a frequent visitor to the club, brings a laid-back style and approachable demeanor to his premises. It sounds like a casual conversation among friends, but it's really the stage presence of a seasoned vet. Note: No show on July 4. Showtimes are Thursday at 8:30 p.m., Saturday at 6 p.m., 8 p.m. and 10:15 p.m. and Sunday at 7 p.m. 12938 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa. Info: sidesplitterscomedy.com or 813-960-1197.
Lou Angelwolf at Snappers. Angelwolf is a local performer with more than 25 years in the business. He's still got plenty of hair, a likable stage presence and enough jokes to entertain all comers over the holiday weekend. Showtimes are Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. 36657 U.S. Highway 19 N., Palm Harbor. Info: snappersgrill.com or 727-938-2027.
Tim Moffett at Coconuts Comedy Club (MJ's). Moffett, also known as "The Daily Farmer," brings his down-home comedy to the beach this weekend. His blue-collar appeal keeps him busy in Florida comedy clubs.
Showtimes are Wednesday-Saturday at 9:30 p.m. 5501 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. Info: coconutscomedyclubs.com or 727-360-5653.
Pretty Paul Parsons at Two Palms Bar & Bistro. Parsons is a dirty old man. That's not an insult; it's an accurate description of his stand-up comedy. Expect plenty of adult language, wildly inappropriate commentary and a lot of audience laughter. Showtime is Saturday at 8:30 p.m. 2950 Gulf To Bay Blvd., Clearwater. Info: tampabaycomedy.com or 727-741-8014.