Independence Day in Temple

The Fourth of July is a time of celebration that commemorates the Declaration of Independence. On July 4th, 1776, the United States of America gained its independence and became a country for the people. Today, we celebrate with fireworks, festivities, gatherings, and parades to honor this significant and joyous event in history. Check out some of the great ways you can celebrate Independence Day in Bell County this weekend!

The North Central Temple Historic District (NCTHD) will have an Independence Day Parade. This parade takes place on Tuesday, July 4th at 9 AM. The parade route starts at the corner of French and 9th St. Get yourselves, your bikes, and your wagons decked out for this parade! No motorized vehicles are permitted in the parade. Don't have a bike, but still want to participate? You can dress up in red, white, and blue and walk the route. Haute Dog food truck will be set up on the corner of 9th St and Monroe with patriotic-themed hot dogs for sale. For more information on the event and the organization, find the North Central Temple Historic District on Facebook or visit their website.

Fourth of July Fun Fest & Fireworks Show

This year, the City of Temple is planning its annual celebration event taking place on July 4th. This event will be the 26th Annual H-E-B 4th of July Fireworks Show. Be sure to arrive early to beat the traffic and get a good spot to view the show.

The City of Temple's 4th of July event is free to attend and open to the public. 

Location:

• Crossroads Park: 1020 Research Parkway 

Time:

• 6:00 PM: Park Opens
• 9:30 PM: Drone Show provided by Texell Credit Union and fireworks show to follow. 

The H-E-B 4th of July Fun Fest will feature live music from Trick Shot this year. Trick Shot will begin their performance at 7 PM. This 5-piece cover band from Austin, Texas, specializes in fun, upbeat music and interactive performances. Trick Shot covers everything from Motown to Funk, modern pop, classic rock, and everything else.

Remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen. Outdoor events are lots of fun for the whole family, but it's important to remember to take precautions when planning to be outdoors for long periods of time.

Show up to the event early to check out the local vendors and enjoy time with the family and others who are equally excited to celebrate the United States of America and all the things America has accomplished since winning its independence. This exciting, family-fun event will be one for the history books.

Mobile App Experience

Want to tune into the show but can't make it in person to the event? Visitors can download the Pyrocast app from their associated smartphone app store.

Instructions: 

1. Download app
2. Click "Audience Guest Login"
3. Use code 4PPN to view the show

Allowed Items:

• Lawn Chairs
• Blankets
• Sunscreen
• Water
• Friends or family to enjoy the festivities with

Prohibited Items:

• Fireworks / Sparklers / Noisemakers (as per City Ordinance)
• Pop-up tents are allowed in the common area ONLY. No tents are allowed on soccer fields due to underground irrigation. Tents MUST be anchored with weights, and no tent stakes are allowed.
• Weapons
• Cigarettes, cigars, or pipes
• Drugs or drug paraphernalia.
• Advertising, selling, or promoting any third-party product (including, but not limited to, food and beverage items)
• Amplified sound systems
• No outdoor grills
• Generators
• Kerosene lamps or open flames
• Laser pointers and air horns
• Littering
• Drones, remote-controlled aircrafts
• Volleyball nets/stakes

Festivities begin with a  Downtown Street Party on Saturday, June 24. The street party will be located near the Historic Bell County Courthouse on 101 E. Central Ave. 

Live music featuring Leon River Band, Grupo Pression, Kenny Orts, and No Chance will start at 5:30 PM. 

Enjoy food trucks, games, and craft brews. Don't forget to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on to stay comfortable as you listen to live music. 

Also, in Belton, there will be a carnival at Liberty Park on 700 Veterans Way and the 99th Annual PRCA Rodeo at the Cadence Bank Center from July 1- 3.

4th of July Events and Times:

• Patriotic Program 
  • Historic Bell County Courthouse; 101 E Central Ave.
  • 8 AM
• Parade
  • Beginning at UMHB and ending at Police Memorial
  • 9 AM
• Festival on Nolan Creek
  • Yettie Polk Park
  • 11 AM - 3 PM
• Backyard Party
  • Schoepf's Bar-B-Que
  • 7 PM

In the month of July, the temperatures soar, making it one of the hottest months of the year. During this time, it's crucial to be mindful of heat exhaustion and dehydration, as they can quickly take a toll on your well-being. Discover Temple has put together some valuable tips to help you stay cool and comfortable this Fourth of July.

• As you gear up for the festivities, don't overlook the importance of packing mosquito spray to shield yourself from pesky bug bites. It's never fun to deal with the aftermath of multiple bug bites after an exciting evening out.
• Whether you're planning to take in the parade, enjoy the fireworks show, or join the 25th Annual H-E-B Fun Fest, remember to bring along lawn chairs or blankets for a comfortable seating arrangement.
• Stock up on ice-cold water bottles to keep yourself hydrated and counteract the impacts of the scorching temperatures.
• Prepare your red, white, and blue attire in advance to embrace the spirit of America's Independence Day in style. Pay homage to the nation by proudly donning these patriotic colors when you step out to celebrate.

Whether you decide to participate in a single event or all of the festivities taking place in the area this Fourth of July, it's important to reflect on the reasons behind our celebration of Independence Day. This Fourth of July, come together with your cherished ones to honor and enjoy the wonderful country we call home, surrounded by joy, entertainment, and a dazzling display of fireworks. Wishing you a joyous Independence Day!