One of the summer’s most anticipated events is almost here. Friday, August 21 is the 40th annual Oak Bluffs fireworks extravaganza.

The Ocean Park bandstand and the skies above Oak Bluffs have their big moment as the Oak Bluffs Fireman’s Association and BET put on the big show.

Arrive early at Ocean Park to reserve a spot; the lawn fills up with chairs and blankets to stake territory. The band starts playing at 8 p.m., and fireworks will fill the night sky at about 9 p.m.

The Oak Bluffs fireworks display has earned its reputation as one of the best pyrotechnic displays around. Some years, the President is even on hand for the show. And excellence draws crowds, so the Oak Bluffs police department and the Steamship Authority are offering some advice for those who want to take in the display.

Because of heavy traffic and road closures, the Oak Bluffs police department recommends using public transportation. VTA buses from Vineyard Haven will drop off and pick up at Sunset Lake Park across from Our Market. VTA buses from Edgartown will drop off and pick up on Seaview avenue at the intersection with Tuckernuck avenue.

There will be public parking at Waban Park and Sunset Lake Park; small donations are required.

Handicapped parking will be available at the Oak Bluffs police department rear lot and the triangle surrounding the Civil War monument. The spaces are limited and first come, first served.

Those arriving or departing Friday night from the Island Queen, Hy-Line, Seastreak and Steamship Authority should allow extra travel time. The Steamship Authority will be diverting trips between Woods Hole and Oak Bluffs to Vineyard Haven between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on Friday; check the Steamship Authority schedule for more information.