Don’t Miss These Fourth of July Events Around Abilene and the Big Country
The Fourth of July is shaping up to be a busy one around the Big Country, and if you're looking for fireworks, fast cars, live music, family fun, or even a little friendly cornhole competition, there's already plenty happening.
As more events are announced, I'll continue updating this list, so be sure to check back often.
Freedom of War Brings Big-Time Drag Racing to Abilene Raceway
If your idea of patriotism includes tire smoke, race fuel, and enough horsepower to rattle your chest, Freedom of War at West TX Abilene Raceway needs to be on your radar.
The two-day event features a massive $150,000 guaranteed Small Tire payout, multiple racing classes, Power Wheels racing for the kids, and a fireworks show Saturday night. Some of Texas' fastest street-style race cars will be battling it out for serious cash and bragging rights. Get more details here.
Shinnery Rat Cornhole Hosts Fourth of July Bash at Clyde Lake
If you'd rather toss bags than burn rubber, Shinnery Rat Cornhole is hosting its Fourth of July Bash Cornhole Tournament at Clyde Lake on July 4 beginning at noon.
The event promises cold drinks, prizes, raffles, a 50/50 drawing, and competition for players of all skill levels. Organizers are encouraging folks to bring their friends, family, and crew for an afternoon of bags, laughs, and Independence Day fun.
And honestly, cornhole and the Fourth of July go together about as well as barbecue and sweet tea.
Clyde's Festival by the Lake Returns
While you're at Clyde Lake, don't forget about the annual Festival by the Lake celebration. The longtime tradition typically features live music, vendors, food, family activities, and one of the area's biggest fireworks displays. The event has become a Fourth of July staple for many Big Country families over the years.
Jim Ned Volunteer Fire Department Car Show & Fireworks
Looking for classic cars, family fun, and fireworks all in one place? Head to Tuscola for the Jim Ned Volunteer Fire Department's annual 4th of July Car Show. Registration runs from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., with the first 100 participants receiving a free event T-shirt.
Check out custom-built trophies, door prizes, food, and an impressive lineup of cars, trucks, and motorcycles before wrapping up the evening with a fireworks show. The event also features a fundraiser raffle benefiting the Jim Ned Volunteer Fire Department.
Baird's Fourth of July Celebration
If you're looking for a classic small-town Texas Fourth of July celebration, Baird has you covered. The festivities kick off at 5 p.m. at Bell Park, and the evening wraps up with a fireworks show after dark, making it the perfect way to celebrate Independence Day with family, friends, good food, and plenty of patriotic spirit.
- When: July 4, starting at 5 p.m.
- Where: Bell Park, Baird, Texas
- Highlights: Brisket meal, snow cones, gun raffle fundraiser, and fireworks at dark.
Abilene Community Band Fourth of July Concert
Looking for a patriotic way to kick off your Fourth of July? The Abilene Community Band is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a free outdoor concert at the Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest. Bring a lawn chair, enjoy some hot dogs and popcorn, and settle in for an evening of classical American music before the fireworks begin.
- When: July 4
- Where: Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest Lawn
- Food at 6 p.m.
- Ceremony at 6:45 p.m.
- Concert at 7 p.m.
Buffalo Gap's Big 250th Watermelon Celebration
Buffalo Gap is going all out for America's 250th birthday with a full day of family-friendly fun. Organizers are hoping to put together the biggest Fourth of July parade the town has ever seen, welcoming everything from classic tractors and horses to decorated golf carts and patriotic pets.
Once the parade wraps up, the festivities continue with live music, a watermelon eating contest, local vendors, great food, and plenty of opportunities to celebrate small-town Texas at its best. Bring your lawn chairs, your patriotic spirit, and the whole family for what promises to be one of Buffalo Gap's biggest Independence Day celebrations yet.
Brownwood's America 250 Independence Day Celebration
Brownwood is joining communities across the country in celebrating America's 250th birthday with a Fourth of July parade through downtown. The festivities begin in the morning with a patriotic parade before moving to Riverside Park for an afternoon of community activities, local speakers, and plenty of red, white, and blue spirit.
Whether you're a Brownwood local or just looking for another way to celebrate Independence Day, it's a great opportunity to enjoy a classic hometown Fourth of July with family, friends, and fellow patriots.
Santa Anna's Stars and Stripes Celebration
Santa Anna is keeping the Fourth of July tradition alive with a community celebration packed with patriotic fun, family activities, food, and entertainment. The annual Stars and Stripes event brings neighbors together for a day of hometown pride, giving families a chance to celebrate America's birthday with games, fellowship, and plenty of red, white, and blue spirit. If you're looking for a classic small-town Texas Independence Day experience, Santa Anna is worth adding to your holiday plans.
Coleman's Independence Day Extravaganza
Coleman is planning a full day of Fourth of July fun as part of America's 250th birthday celebration. Expect a patriotic community gathering featuring family activities, food, entertainment, and plenty of small-town Texas pride. Organizers are encouraging residents and visitors alike to come out and help make this year's celebration one of the biggest the community has hosted, with festivities designed for all ages throughout the day.
More Events Are Coming
Know of a Fourth of July event happening in Abilene or the surrounding Big Country? Send it my way at chaz.mcguire@townsquaremedia.com, and I'll continue updating this list as we get closer to Independence Day.
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Gallery Credit: Dan Patrick
