Gwood,
In this day and age where you can get a GPS for $100 there is no reason for anyone not to have one. They make boating so much easier. Now, I am not saying that you shouldn't be prepared in case it fails but overall they are very handy. Take extra batteries.
I have a handheld gps. I love it. When I've gone to the lake I'll make a daytime run and track it with my gps OR go up early in the evening. After the fireworks you just trace your route back on the GPS. Keep the screen view down to a 1/2 mile or less, that will keep you very close to your original pass.
Make sure you have a spot light and a flashlight, a chart, enough fuel, an anchor with 200' of line. PFD's for all. I wear a small flashlight around my neck with a red lense on it, if I need to read the chart the light is red so it doesn't ruin my night vision.
I haven't checked to see whether it will be a full moon. That would help your night vision immensely and make for a beautiful night.
The main thing is to take your time. The trip is the "event" after all.
I've always enjoyed the fireworks from the boat. I've seen 200 boats out there and I've seen less.
Some people don't even think of taking their boats out after dark. I like to, it gives you an entirely different outlook.
CZ
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