Elizabethton officials are preparing for this weekend's Independence Day Celebration.
Festivities will begin Saturday at Covered Bridge Park at 3:45 p.m.
"If you missed out last year, I'm sure that you saw pictures or footage that was all over the news last year," Kelly Kitchens with Elizabethton Parks and Recreation said. "People sharing it on social media, I think they were really impressed by what we had to share. This was our first year doing fireworks here at Covered Bridge Park last year."
The afternoon will kick off with the Patriotic Pedal. The patriotic bike parade invites participants to join up at Edward’s Island Parking Lot for a ride that will begin at 3:45 p.m. Cyclists are asked to go all out decorating their bike for a special 4.5-mile ride beginning at Edward’s Island Park, continuing through downtown and ending at Covered Bridge Park.
Other non-motorized vehicles are welcome to join in the fun by decorating tricycles, wagons, strollers, scooters, etc. Additionally, there will be a smaller loop for younger/unassisted riders and non-bicycles. Those participants should meet at Covered Bridge Park by 4 p.m. Once back at Covered Bridge Park, the top three winners will be awarded with a trophy. Participation is free, but pre-registration is required by visiting the link: bit.ly/patrioticpedal.
The Patriotic Pup Pageant will take place at the Covered Bridge Park Stage at 4 p.m. Officials ask that you have your pup put on their best patriotic attire such as shades, hat, bowtie or more and compete for top dog prizes! Registration is free and begins at 3:30 p.m.
Additionally, the Little Miss Firecracker Pageant will be presented beginning at 4:45 p.m. with trophies awarded in several age categories. Pre-registration is required and is ongoing. Applications can be picked up at the Elizabethton Recreation Center or by calling Amy with Dancer’s Dreams Performing Arts Academy at (504) 392-9138.
Afterwards, Dancer’s Dreams Performing Arts Academy will take the stage with special dance performances from all ages in several different dance styles.
The evening will continue with the Patriotic Opening Ceremonies with the raising of the flag, patriotic tributes, and more.
Spank! The 80’s will take the stage at 7:30 P.M. for a special free performance. They are described by officials as an ultimate 80s party band that you don't want to miss.
The fireworks finale will round out the evening. There will be viewing areas around Covered Bridge Park and Downtown Elizabethton.
Food trucks will be available throughout the day and evening.
For more information, you can visit Elizabethton.org under the Parks and Recreation tab and on Facebook @elizabethtonparksandrecreation for future announcements. You can also contact the Elizabethton Parks and Recreation Department at 423-547-6441.