Area festivals to celebrate July 4th

Houstonians have their choice of safe, fun, family-friendly events this Independence Day.
Houston Downtown’s 4th
“Freedom over Texas”, Houston’s Official July 4th Celebration, will celebrate America’s Birthday with a rare live appearance from the multi-award winning, legendary singing duo, The Judds.

Freedom Over Texas marks the only time this year the The Judds will appear together in concert.  Celebrating their 20th year of performing together, Naomi and Wynonna Judd were recently named two of the “Greatest Women of Country Music”. The Judds have sold over 20 million records, have celebrated 14 #1’s and have won over 60 industry awards, including 5 Grammys.

Several stages will keep toes tapping with the diverse musical sounds of today’s America including pop, Latin, adult contemporary, classic rock.

A reminder of the patriotic roots of July 4th, a special area will offer the unique opportunity to experience displays of military artifacts and vehicles including tanks and Huey helicopters, voting booth demonstrations, the Printing Museum of History and much more.

Children will stay entertained with inflatables, rides and games in the kid’s zone, while adults enjoy browsing the market. A variety of great food and beverage will complete the day of celebration.

The crowning highlight of “Freedom over Texas” 2004 will be “Wish Upon a Lone Star” – A Blast of Fireworks from Walt Disney World. Spanning Buffalo Bayou west of Sabine Bridge, this awe-inspiring fireworks extravaganza will combine specially choreographed music saluting America, Texas and Disney favorites with pyrotechnic artistry.
The party runs from 4:00pm to 10:00pm at Eleanor Tinsley Park on the Buffalo Bayou.
For the first time ever, Houston’s July 4th celebration will be syndicated live. The music for the fireworks display will be broadcast on radio station Star 790 KBME-AM.
Six Flags Astroworld
Six Flags Astroworld will celebrate the Fourth of July with a day of live entertainment, contests, appearances by Fox 26 personalities and a spectacular fireworks display all free with park admission. Park hours Sunday, July 4 are 10:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m.
Schedule of Events: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.- Center Stage Meet your favorite Fox 26 personalities Jose Griñan, Mike Barajas, Patti Shieh & Tom Zizka;11:00 a.m.- Center Stage Frog jumping contest ;12:00 p.m. – Center Stage -Pie eating contest ;1:00 p.m. – Center Stage -Hot dog eating contest; 2:00 p.m. – Center Stage-Watermelon toss ; 9:30 p.m. Southern Star Amphitheatre-Live entertainment and fireworks
Discount tickets are available at Housotn-area Kroger and Fiest Mart stores or online.
Houston Symphony
The Houston Symphony invites everyone to show off their patriotism with them at the Star Spangled Salute. The musicians will play American classics including the Star Spangled Banner, The Stars and Stripes Forever, the 1812 Overture, and more inspiring selections dedicated to the greatness of the USA and our home state of Texas. Pay tribute to those who sacrifice to secure our freedom by joining in the annual Service Medley. Don’t miss commemorating the birth of our nation by joining the Houston Symphony for this grandiose traditional celebration.
The event will be held at the Miller Outdoor Theater in Hermann Park.