Many opportunities to celebrate America

America is celebrating a milestone this year. The year 2026 marks 250 years of freedom for the United States of America, and since the Declaration of Independence was signed. In celebration of the monumental occasion, many Independence Day celebrations will be held, not only on July 4, but also the days surrounding our nation's birthday. 

The College of the Ozarks kicks off more than a week of celebrations with Honor America on Saturday, June 27. The event includes music, food vendors, activities for children, a patriotic tribute and an amazing fireworks and drone show. The activities begin at 6 p.m., with the fireworks starting at dusk.

On Thursday, July 2, Kimberling City is the site of Fireburst, their annual fireworks exhibition near the Kimberling City Bridge. Starting at dusk, you can enjoy fireworks from the shores of Table Rock Lake or by boat.

Branson Landing's Liberty Light Up celebration is set for Friday, July 3. The festivities begin with a concert featuring Damsel from 6:30 to 8 p.m., followed by The Dirty Saints, who take the stage at 8 p.m. A spectacular, choreographed fireworks display begins after the concert.

The City of Hollister holds the title of hosting the area's oldest fireworks exhibit. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy viewing the fireworks from the city's Chad A. Fuqua Memorial Park, adjacent to the Hollister City Hall. The event begins at dusk on Saturday, July 4.

Also on July 4, Big Cedar will celebrate the holiday with their annual Patriotic Picnic, to include a full day of games and contests, crafts and live entertainment. The evening's activities commence with a flyover and the area's largest fireworks display. The public can view the fireworks from Top of the Rock, just a short drive south of Branson.

Rockaway Beach celebrates July 4 with food, festivities, fun and fireworks. Children's activities, live music and other fun takes place throughout the day, and the fireworks, to begin at dusk, can be viewed from the bank of Lake Taneycomo or by boat on Saturday, the 4th of July.

The 50th Annual 4th of July Fire and Thunder Fireworks event will be held on July 4th at dusk at the Shell Knob Bridge, when a spectacular display illuminates the night sky.

Chateau on the Lake's Independence Day event is set for Sunday, July 5. The resort's annual BBQ and outdoor activities begin in the evening and continue until the fireworks start at dusk over the beautiful Table Rock Lake.

However you choose to celebrate, we wish you a safe and Happy Independence Day week.