Baby, you’re a firework. The July Fourth weekend is a medley of planets in emotional Cancer and dramatic Leo. On Friday, a Cancer solar eclipse starts the holiday off on a surreal note. Cancer is the ruler of home and family, so if you’re traveling to see relatives, expect the unexpected. Solar eclipses happen two to four times a year, and they temporarily suspend our customary ways of thinking, behaving and relating.

On the upside, this could be the weekend that you FINALLY get through to that stubborn family member (like convincing an elderly parent to hire a home health aide, or getting your kid to understand the perils of peer pressure). However, this eclipse is involved in a tug-of-war with rigid Saturn, rebellious Uranus and intensifying Pluto. Seems that people may dig in their heels, resisting before they relent. If you’re traveling, you may encounter an attitudinal flight attendant, a snippy airport security guard or a cranky toll-booth operator. Grit your teeth, smile, and wish them a happy Independence Day. (Trust us.)

While the eclipse’s impact can be felt up to a week before and after the actual event, Friday is the most intense day. On Saturday, communication planet Mercury moves into passionate, huggy-bear Leo. People become warm and affectionate, more open about sharing their feelings. However, self-centeredness can crop up. There may be a few egos to navigate, like that loudmouthed uncle at the party who drinks one too many Bud Lights and starts spouting uncomfortable political views. The Moon will also be in Leo on Saturday and Sunday, amplifying this dramatic energy.

Leo is a show pony, so the best way to deal with any over-the-top characters is to douse their flames with praise: “Wow, that’s so cool that you just built your thousandth model airplane. I’d love to hear all about it another time, but I’ve promised to help in the kitchen.” Or, “Well, we pretty much have opposite political viewpoints, but I respect how passionate you are about your beliefs.” Then exit stage left — as fast as you can.

If tension bubbles up, Monday the 4th will be your saving grace. That day, harmonious Venus enters Cancer, bringing an air of peace, love and understanding to your clan. If you’re splitting the weekend between your own plans and time with family, reserve July Fourth for your relatives and spend the rest of the time on your own clock. If not, know that an extended weekend with your family will probably be interrupted with work and relationship demands — as well as your own indecisiveness. With impetuous Uranus in independent Aries, you may want to jet off solo on a whim. Don’t box yourself into too many obligations, as you WILL need some “me time.” Do you really need to go to the hometown parade, say hi to your elementary school teachers, take the kids to the bouncy castle, propose to your significant other on the beach AND wrap up that PowerPoint presentation all in the same weekend? The road to hell is paved with good intentions. Keep it light and go with the flow as best as you can.