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PrintThis year’s Fourth of July is synonymous with two things: fireworks and free.
Because it is illegal to possess, sell or discharge fireworks within the corporate limits of Columbia, Batallion Chief Steven Sapp of the Columbia Fire Department recommends that residents go to the Fire in the Sky show at Memorial Stadium.
Even if you will not be in Columbia this weekend, there are a number of celebrations and free events around mid-Missouri.
COLUMBIA
SUNDAY
What: Fire in the Sky
When: Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Fireworks begin after 9:30 p.m.
Where: Memorial Stadium
Cost: Free. Concessions will also be available.
This year will mark the 58th anniversary of the city’s Fourth of July celebration, which takes place within walking distance of downtown. Entertainment includes two bands and patriotic music from Hickman High School’s choir. More information, including a list of prohibited items can be found at gocolumbiamo.com.
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What: I Love America Festival
When: Gates open at 3 p.m. Fireworks begin at 9:35 p.m.
Where: Boone County Fairgrounds
Cost: Free; $15 per duathlon entry
The festival is sponsored by the New Life Community Church and will begin with a kid’s duathlon followed by live music, food and carnival games. New Life will also hold a worship gathering earlier in the morning. A full list of activities can be found at iloveamericafestival.org.
JEFFERSON CITY
The state capitol’s Salute to America event is two days long and includes a parade, two stages for live music and other sponsored food and entertainment throughout the day. The official opening ceremony begins at 8 p.m. Saturday. Admission is free, though certain events and food might cost extra. A full schedule can be found online.
SATURDAY
What: CenturyLink Spirit of America Parade
When: 6 p.m.
Where: Downtown Jefferson City. Parade viewing begins in front of City Hall on Monroe Street. There will also be a viewing stand on High Street.
Cost: Free
Winners for the Best of Parade contest will be announced from the Main Stage on Saturday evening.
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What: Little Mr. and Miss Independence Contest
When: Check in starts 6 p.m., contest begins at 7 p.m.
Where: Madison and High streets
Cost: There is a $10 fee per contestant.
The contest is open to any boy or girl between 4 and 6 years old who is a Missouri resident. Prizes awarded to each winner include a crown, sash and $100 savings bond. More information and entry applications can be found online.
SUNDAY
What: Red White and BOOM! fireworks show
When: Dusk
Cost: Free
The lawn of the state capitol is advertised as prime seating to watch the display.
ARROW ROCK
SATURDAY
What: Red, White and Tuna
When: 2 p.m.
Where: Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre, 114 High St.
Cost: $32 per seat
This satirical performance showcases two men playing 24 characters at a high school reunion in Tuna, the third-smallest town in Texas. The show will run through July 11. More information and tickets can be found here.
SUNDAY
What: “Impromptu Parade”
When: 1 p.m.
Where: Along Main Street
Cost: Free
All are welcome to participate, organization begins at the Old Schoolhouse at 12:45 p.m.
ASHLAND
SATURDAY
What: City of Ashland Annual July 4th Parade
When: 10 a.m.
Where: Southern Boone Primary School on South Henry Clay Boulevard
Cost: Free
All are invited to decorate a bicycle, tractor, car, truck or motorcycle and join in the parade. Lineup for the parade begins at 9 a.m.
CENTRALIA
THURSDAY
What: Raising of the Avenue of Flags
When: 5 p.m.
Where: Centralia City Cemetery
Cost: Free
More than 300 flags will be on display during Independence Day weekend until Tuesday. Volunteers who are interested in helping raise the flags can meet at the VFW Memorial and Flag Display to recite the Pledge of Allegiance and sing the National Anthem. More information about volunteering and where to park can be found at centraliamo.org/calendar.
FULTON
FRIDAY
What: Fireworks Display
When: Gates open at 5 p.m.
Where: Callaway Raceway
Cost: $12 for adults, $5 for children ages 7 to 12
A fireworks display will follow regular racing classes. More information on classes can be found at callawayraceways.com.
SUNDAY
What: Fireworks display
When: Dusk (9 p.m.)
Where: Fulton Country Club
Cost: Although the country club is members-only; members of the public can view the show from nearby Morningside Park.
LAKE OF THE OZARKS
The Lodge of Four Seasons, Tan-Tar-A Resort and Bear Bottom Resort are all hosting fireworks shows as part of special weekend packages.
ROCHEPORT
SATURDAY
What: Independence Day Celebration
When: 4 p.m.
Where: Les Bourgeois Winery
Cost: Free to attend, $10 to eat barbecue
The celebration is advertised as being family-friendly and will include live music, barbecue and fireworks.
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What: Fourth of July Weekend Getaway
Cost: $49 to $89 for the special package in addition to room cost
More: Those who are willing to splurge a little can choose to stay at a luxury bed and breakfast as a part of this getaway put on by the Rocheport B&B Association and includes a barbecue with innkeepers on Sunday evening. Participating inns include Yates House, School House and Amber House.
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