hey Candace,
We were at OKW in '95 and '96 for the 4th and they did have a celebration. It was a lot of fun especially for the kids. There was a bike parade for the kids using the rental bikes and decorations, some character visits and and in the morning several children's activities at Community Hall. I hope they still do that. There were no fireworks but you can see Epcot's fireworks from Turtle Krawl. The parks are a zoo anytime in the summer but the 4th seems to be the worst. I totally agree with you about staying away. One thing I do vividly remember is that it was VERY HOT!!
Have a good time
Michelle