Choose Your Level of Patriotism this 4th of July

Drive any direction, and you will find one of the many different Fourth of July celebrations around the state. From massive fireworks extravaganzas to traditional hometown displays of patriotism, or old-fashioned jubilees, there is a celebration the entire family will enjoy. Oklahoma is one state that does not skimp on the festivities

Go Big or Go Home Edmond’s LibertyFest is a must-see. Encompassing ten events that span a week, LibertyFest has been recognized by CNN and USA Today as among the top ten festivals to experience in the U.S. This year also marks the 50th anniversary of the festival. From parades, a car show, activities for the kids, and fireworks, there is something different to do every day for the entire family.

Take in the scenery of the Arkansas River and check out Tulsa’s FreedomFest. A day of activities takes place around Tulsa’s River Parks district. Relax with a picnic before enjoying live music, face painting, food vendors, and other concessions. Then stay for one of the largest fireworks displays in the state.

Come see Moore and a Celebration in the Heartland. This festival is considered to be among the best Oklahoma has to offer. Parents will enjoy the motorcycle, car, and truck show, while the kids enjoy frolicking in the giant sandpit or experiencing the arts tent. A wide variety of vendors and food concessions will also be present, along with carnival rides followed by a spectacular fireworks show.

Freedom Fest in Yukon offers attendees a day-long series of events. Kids will enjoy the parade, arts and crafts, swimming, and games, while the entire family can take advantage of free ice cream, watermelon, and music. The night’s festivities come to a close at Chisolm Trail Park with an awe-inspiring fireworks display and a performance by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic orchestra.

Hometown Pride

The annual Blackberry Festival in McLoud embellishes old-fashioned traditions with one of the state’s longest-running Fourth of July festivals. Experience a day filled with live history demonstrations, car shows, and blackberry cobbler eating contests. A carnival and fireworks display round out the festivities.

The Watermelon Seed Spittin’ World Championship is right here in Oklahoma. For over 50 years, Pauls Valley has hosted the competition every Fourth of July. The event is so popular that it has been featured in the Guinness Book of World Records and Ripley’s Believe It or Not. It has as even made an appearance in Trivial Pursuit. Contestants compete to break the current world record of 66 feet 11 inches held since 1989.

If tradition is what you are after, look no further than Pawnee. The town hosts festivities known for old-fashioned fun each year, including bubble gum blowing contests, turtle races, water balloon fights, and horseshoe games. Join in the egg-toss, tug-of-war, boot toss, or sack races. If games are not for you, then take part in the mid-day parade and evening fireworks.

Boomer Blast in Stillwater has become synonymous with patriotism. The day ends with a traditional fireworks display set to music. However, leading up till then, the day is filled with events. Participate in a fishing tournament, boat, or swim on Boomer Lake, and listen to live music. But don’t forget to sample the food!

For more information about these and other celebrations around the state, visit https://travelok.com