The Independence Day Celebration for Downtown Poplar Bluff will begin at 9 a.m. on Monday, July 4 with the traditional parade sponsored by Fox Radio.
The evening firework display is scheduled to begin around 9 p.m.
“Briggs and Stratton have sponsored $15,000 of the $20,000 needed for this year’s event,” said Morgan McIntosh, Director of Downtown Poplar Bluff. “This year is the most expensive so far, in the past, it’s been less, so we’ve had to try to find more sponsors.”
“I expect us to have a good turnout, there will be a few food trucks by the Farmers Market most of the day and a few that night like Taters Tacos and Kona Ice,” said McIntosh.
Wappapello Lake Area Association encourages families to bring lawn chairs, blankets and bug spray to the annual firework presentation at the Redman Creek Recreation Area on Saturday, July 2. In addition to the firework display, there will also be several food vendors at the event.
This year’s lake presentation will consist of over $11,000 in fireworks, all paid for by donations taken during the Wappapello Festival of Lights Christmas display. “A lot of people don’t know that is where the funds for the fireworks come from every year,” said Deana Teague, treasurer of the WLAA.
Teague went on to explain the organization is responsible for most of the events held at the lake such as Waterfest and fishing day.
The WLAA has also partnered with Southern Bank for a movie in the park “Sing 2,” which will be shown in the spillway recreation area on Friday, July 1. “The bank will be giving everyone one free popcorn and soda,” said Teague.
In Doniphan, the Ripley County Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Freedom Fest. The event will be held at the Ripley County Fairgrounds in Doniphan on Saturday, July 2. The gates will open at 2 p.m., adult tickets are $10, and kids 12 and under get in free.
During the event, there will be an exotic and farm animal petting zoo, pony rides, laser tag, a mobile game and photo truck, an escape room, mechanical bull, pageant and firework display. All of the days’ events have been sponsored by local businesses, the only charge for the event will be the $10 charge for adults, as well as any food or vendor items purchased.
In addition to the many activities and food vendors, there will also be live music in the afternoon followed by a performance from country music legend Ronnie McDowell.
The city of Dexter will hold its annual firework display at the East City Park on Monday, July 4, at 9 p.m. and the Van Buren firework display is Sunday, July 3 at dark. The display in Van Buren will be shot from private property, but can best be seen on the riverfront. Spectators should bring seating and bug spray to enjoy the show.