"Summer Sucks" is the eighth episode of the second season of the American animated television series South Park. The 21st episode of the series overall, it originally aired on Comedy Central in the United States on June 24, 1998. The episode was written by series co-creator Trey Parker, along with Nancy M. Pimental, and directed by Parker. Jonathan Katz makes a guest appearance as himself. In the episode, Summer arrives and the town of South Park celebrate Independence Day by building and lighting a giant snake firework, since regular fireworks are illegal. Jimbo and Ned travel to Mexico to obtain fireworks, while the giant snake threatens to destroy the country. Meanwhile, Mr. Garrison struggles to cope with the loss of his hand puppet, Mr. Hat.