Almost 250 years ago, the Founding Fathers ratified the Declaration of Independence, marking the birth of the United States. Communities across Oklahoma will celebrate this historic event yet again with dazzling fireworks, good food and live entertainment.
Folds of Honor FreedomFest
Known as Tulsa’s largest fireworks show, FreedomFest is the culmination of months of careful planning.
On the day of the festival, Ryan Howell – the event coordinator at River Parks Authority – begins setting up at 2 a.m.
“It’s an incredibly large event,” he says. “All of the puzzle pieces have to come together.”
FreedomFest will shoot off 4,000 shells during the 25-minute fireworks show that begins at 9:30 p.m. Family-friendly activities like live music and face-painting will take place in Dream Keepers Park and River West Festival Park.
Founded in 1976, FreedomFest is funded through private donations and is one of the most attended public events in the city.
“This is an event that really brings all of Tulsa together. It’s always great to see families come out and enjoy an incredible experience,” says Howell.
LibertyFest
Established in 1972, LibertyFest has become a fixture of the Edmond community. Originally founded by a group of local businessmen, the festival has turned into a long-standing tradition backed by a robust volunteer base.
LibertyFest celebrates the Fourth of July all week long with a rodeo, jazz acts, trivia nights and a car show.
On July 4, LibertyFest will ring in the holiday with a street parade in Downtown Edmond beginning at 9 a.m. The fireworks show commences at 9:30 p.m. in E.C. Hafer Park.
Duck Creek Fireworks
Patriotism has always been the heart of Duck Creek Fireworks. U.S. Marine veteran W. W. Bill Bailey was responsible for upholding the tradition since its start in 1946.
When Joe Harwood, owner of the Arrowhead Yacht Club and Marina, took over the reins from Bailey in the 1980s, he solidified it as an annual Fourth of July celebration.
“It’s grown immensely,” says Harwood. “It’s now the biggest fireworks show in the state of Oklahoma.”
During the day, spectators can see an F-16 flyover and an airshow featuring World War II War Birds. To honor the sacrifices of veterans and first responders, 10% of the funds generated from the event go to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
Harwood emphasizes that the event wouldn’t be possible without the support of the community.
“It’s a great and wonderful tradition that we are so proud to be a part of,” he says.
Yukon Freedom Fest
Spanning July 3-4, Yukon Freedom Fest is an outdoor festival that will transform Chisholm Trail Park and City Park into a hub of family-oriented activities. The two-day event has been around for 29 years.
One of the event’s most popular traditions is its car show, hosted by the Oklahoma Mustang Club. From 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on July 4, classic cars, trucks and motorcycles will be on display. Proceeds raised from the car show will go toward local charities benefitting senior citizens in Yukon.
The festival also includes a children’s parade, a veteran’s tribute, live concerts, and a triathlon. Both days of activities wrap up with a spectacular firework display starting at 10 p.m.
Main image headline: Fireworks displays are just one perk of the Yukon FreedomFest on July 3-4. Photo courtesy Yukon FreedomFest
