July 2, 2009

Constructing Independence Day
Big Time Planning for a Big Time Celebration

When the last of the fireworks is fired from atop the City Tower on July 3 and the final participant exits the parade on July 4, it will represent the culmination of many dedicated volunteers and staff.

“It takes constant prep time to coordinate events of this magnitude,” said June Owens, president of the Arlington 4th of July Association.

Planning never really stops when it comes to Arlington’s two-day Independence Day bash. The Arlington 4th of July Association meets monthly year-round with the exception of December. They partner with the City of Arlington Parks and Recreation Department, Downtown Management Coorperation, Public Works and Police departments to ensure a safe, quality events.

Western Enterprises, an Oklahoma-based company, was booked to provide the pyrotechnics display that will involve hundreds of aerial shells and a special compilation featuring several musical styles.

The fireworks display will provide prime visibility for people all along downtown and most of the city.

Fireworks will begin around 9:45 p.m., and much planning has gone into activities leading up to the night’s centerpiece.

J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill owner Randy Ford worked with the City to offer live performances on its outdoor stage, beginning at 5 p.m. And Gilligan’s is only one of the places to find live music. The Arlington Community Band, Quebe Sisters Band and Fastball will perform at the Levitt Pavilion in Founders Plaza.

As for the kids, children’s activity areas will open at 5 p.m. with bounce houses, face painting and carnival games.

At 7 p.m., Arlington residents are invited to witness the unveiling of a historical marker at Founders Plaza in honor of city founder, Andrew Shannon Hayter.

“With the new Founders Park and Levitt Pavilion and Light Up Arlington and Independence Day Parade, we are tying all of this together for two days of explosive entertainment,” said Downtown Arlington Management Corporation President Maggie Campbell. “Our vision for the Downtown/University District is a vibrant place where the community celebrates.”

The 44th Annual Independence Day Parade is considered to be one of the largest in the state, attracting more than 50,000 spectators. It will feature about 150 decorative floats, marching bands with more than 3,000 parade participants. The parade begins at 9 a.m. with Baseball Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan serving as Grand Marshal under the theme “Commemorating Our National Monuments and Memorials.”

Following Texas Rangers’ home games against Tampa Bay on July 3 and 4, residents can also see fireworks at the Ballpark in Arlington.

A complete schedule of Light Up Arlington events and vendor information packets can be seen at www.naturallyfun.org or call Arlington Parks and Recreation at 817-459-5474. To learn more about the parade, visit www.arlington4th.com.