INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — Thousands of Indian River County residents and visitors will ring in the nation’s birthday with a parade and fireworks displays in the cities of Sebastian and Vero Beach.
Sebastian is hosting its annual Freedom Fest on Friday, July 4, kicking it off with the 42nd annual Fourth of July Parade, led by the Sebastian Lions Club. An all-day festival continues at Riverview Park and fireworks will cap the celebration beginning at sunset.
The Sebastian Fourth of July Parade will begin at 8:30 a.m. starting at the Sebastian Community Center and the Sebastian Masonic Lodge at 1805 Jackson St., proceeding east on Davis Street and south on Indian River Drive to Riverside Park.
Shortly after sunset, the City will light up under a fireworks display along the river. The best viewing is at the event field on the east side of Indian River Drive, just south of Mulligan’s.
Starting at 4:30 p.m. in Vero Beach, there will be live entertainment from Crooked Creek and from American Idol finalist Kristen O’Conner, as well as bounce houses, and food – all part of the City’s annual Family Fun and Fireworks Spectacular.
The Fireman’s Express Children’s Train will be on-hand for young riders, and there with will be arts and craft vendors for shoppers. Beer and wine will be available for purchase from vendors.
The fireworks display will begin at 9 p.m. and the show should last 20 or 25 minutes. There will be a simulcast music presentation coordinated to the Fireworks Spectacular on 93.7 The Breeze.
Spectators are encouraged to bring a chair to watch the show.
City officials remind participants that personal fireworks and alcohol are prohibited from the park.