Independence Day is around the corner, and there are several opportunities to celebrate in the surrounding area. Check out these events for local fireworks displays and family fun.
July 3
The City of Sherman will host its 15th annual Lights on the Lake at Pecan Grove West Park. This free, fun-filled, family-friendly celebration begins at 4 p.m. DJ Jackie VanZant will kick off the party until the world-famous Beach Boys performs a live concert on stage. Around 9:30 p.m., attendees will enjoy an amazing fireworks display courtesy of Simmons Bank. There will be on-site vendors or guests can bring a picnic. Either way, round up your family and friends, grab your lawn chairs and enjoy this special community event.
July 4
At 11 a.m., catch the 4th of July parade at Cedar Mills Marina & Resort. Entrants should meet at the entrance of the marina. People are welcome to enter a bike, golf cart, motorcycle or boat, and entrants are encouraged to bring their pets. Participants can win crazy awards and prizes. Pelican’s Landing restaurant will be open until 10 p.m.
Later in the day, Gunter City Park will hold an Independence Day celebration from 6-10 p.m. Mustang Special Utility is sponsoring live music, Don Stalling & the Divided, and everyone can enjoy great food, arts and crafts, games, free kids’ activities and more. Bring lawn chairs and blankets and don’t miss Gunter’s famous fireworks show, sponsored by AmeriTex Pipe &
Products and Simmons Bank. Interested in becoming a sponsor and/or vendor? Visit the Gunter Facebook page or email [email protected].
Denison will hold its 37th annual Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration at Munson Stadium. Each year’s fireworks show is bigger and better, and this year will be no different. While the show can be seen from throughout downtown and the surrounding area, viewers are encouraged to safely park in a nearby parking lot, grab their lawn chairs and tune into the simulcast on 93.1 KMKT. The event will have limited vendors, or attendees can dine in or order to-go from any of the local restaurants in town. For a full listing of options, see the Downtown Denison Facebook page. Currently, children’s activities include the splash pad and playground. Please note that no lawn chairs, alcohol or coolers are allowed in the stadium. Music starts at 7 p.m. and fireworks will follow at dusk.
The Tioga Volunteer Fire Department is hosting its annual July 4 event. Enjoy a parade at 5:30 p.m. At 6:15 p.m. food vendors will be available and live music begins at 6:30 p.m. At dusk, attendees can watch a fantastic fireworks show.
July 5
For an unusual fireworks experience, consider taking a Lights at Nights Cruise on Lake Texoma out of Pottsboro. Get up close and personal to enjoy the spectacular displays of color by water aboard Fastrac’s Fireworks Cruise aboard Sight-Sea-Er. Join the celebration with friends and family on this epic, adults-only cruise. All cruises are BYOB for adult beverages – snacks and sodas are available for purchase. (Outside food and drinks are not permitted.) The cruise departs from Lighthouse Marina Charter Dock (300 Lighthouse Drive in Pottsboro) at 8 p.m. Please arrive 15 minutes early to begin the pre-boarding process. For tickets and more information, visit www.Fastrac.com.
The Whitesboro Riding Club will hold its 66th annual 4th of July Rodeo on Friday, July 5 and Saturday, July 6. This family-friendly event showcases the best of the best demonstrating their skills in bareback riding, barrel racing, bull riding, calf roping, breakaway, saddle bronc, steer wrestling and team roping. Local vendor booths offer a variety of food, drinks and souvenirs. Friday’s event ends with a firework show, while Saturday’s event includes the crowning of Rodeo Royalty and ends with a dance at the pavilion. Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the gate. Don’t miss this fun Whitesboro tradition.
July 6
The annual fireworks show at Highport Marina on Lake Texoma will be held at 9 p.m. This spectacular show can be seen from all over the lake.
However you decide to celebrate, heed local laws and use common sense. Have a safe and happy Fourth of July!