ELLY GRIMM

   • Leader & Times

This year marks 250 years of U.S. independence, and many are looking to make the celebration big, including in Liberal.

To help commemorate the day, the 4th of July Committee is hosting a 4th of July Celebration from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 4 at Light Park. Activities will include a parade, vendors, live music, bouncy houses, the Little Miss Firecracker contest, performances by the Liberal Rec Dancers, and many other family-friendly activities.

Coordinator Claudia Garcia said planning has been going on for several months.

“Planning for an event of this size usually begins months in advance. We start coordinating volunteers, vendors, entertainment, contests, and parade participants well before July to make sure everything comes together smoothly,” Garcia said. “We’re excited to bring the community together for a day of celebration. With live music, the parade, family activities, and this year’s recognition of America’s 250th anniversary, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”

Garcia added vendor sign-ups are still being accepted, and she also encouraged those wanting to have a booth to sign up sooner rather than later.

“Having a booth is a great opportunity to connect with community members, promote your business, and be part of one of the area’s largest annual celebrations, and anyone wanting to sign-up would just need to e-mail me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call (620) 417-8150,” Garcia said. “We encourage businesses to register early. Signing up sooner helps vendors secure a good location and allows us to plan the event more effectively. Also, events like this let people visit multiple booths in one spot at the same time, so why wouldn’t you want to be part of that? People at the park will be able to go through many, many different booths, which is a great way to support local businesses.”

Garcia also offered encouragement for people in the community to turn out that day and take part in the festivities.

“It’ll be a great opportunity to celebrate Independence Day with friends, family, and neighbors. Between the parade, live entertainment, food and vendor booths, children’s activities, and special contests, there will be something for all ages to enjoy,” Garcia said. “We want people to come out and participate and start that day off right with all the fun that will be going on. This is going to be the largest celebration of the Fourth of July in Light Park we’ve ever had, and so I would encourage everyone not to miss it. Come out, get some good food to eat, and enjoy the entertainment. It’s going to be a great day. We expect a strong turnout and a memorable celebration.”

Overall, Garcia said, she is looking forward to a successful celebration.

“We would encourage everyone to mark their calendars for July 4 and come celebrate with us at Light Park from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.,” Garcia said. “We also welcome parade participants, vendors, and contest entries. Anyone interested in participating can contact the appropriate coordinator listed on the event flyer. Since this year marks America’s 250th anniversary, we’re hoping residents will take pride in the occasion and join us for a day that honors both our nation’s history and our local community.”