Discover Oklahoma: With events set across the state, you're sure to have a blast for July 4th

Dino Lalli
·3 min read

The skies are lit up with fireworks, the air is filled with patriotic tunes and the streets are decorated with red, white and blue flags. It's almost time to celebrate the Fourth of July, a national holiday in the United States that is rich in tradition and celebration. Understanding the significance of this day of freedom and unity is crucial as we approach this historic date.

More: Are you a spontaneous or detailed trip planner? Oklahoma tourism site can help with either

I very clearly remember learning as a youngster about the independence of the 13 colonies from British rule. This proclamation paved the way for the establishment of a new nation based on the principles of individual freedom, social fairness and legal equality. The Fourth of July is a sobering reminder of the struggles and triumphs of our ancestors, and of the never-ending pursuit of a more perfect union.

As the nation gets ready to celebrate this momentous occasion, there's no better way to get into the patriotic mood than by participating in a Fourth of July parade or barbecue right here in our own community. These events allow us to come together as a community to honor our shared heritage and revel in the diverse traditions that make up the fabric of American life.

What are some Fourth of July events planned in the state?

Here are some of those events going on across the state.

The annual Johnston County Red, White and Boom Celebration is June 30-July 1 at Pennington Creek Park in Tishomingo.

The Lawton-Fort Sill Freedom Festival is held annually in Elmer Thomas Park and is a great way to spend celebrating Independence Day with friends and family. One of the largest fireworks displays in Oklahoma will be featured at this family-friendly event.

People gather during a past American Spirit Festival in Altus. This year's event is set for June 30-July 1 at Hoyt Shadid Park.
People gather during a past American Spirit Festival in Altus. This year's event is set for June 30-July 1 at Hoyt Shadid Park.

Mark your calendars for a celebration of patriotism at the American Spirit Festival at Hoyt Shadid Park in Altus on June 30-July 1.

You can start your Independence Day celebrations early with the Bixby Freedom Celebration on June 30 at the Bentley Sports Complex and experience the region's greatest and most spectacular free public fireworks extravaganza.

This drone image shows the activities during a past Bixby Freedom Celebration. This year's event will be June 30 at the Bentley Sports Complex.
This drone image shows the activities during a past Bixby Freedom Celebration. This year's event will be June 30 at the Bentley Sports Complex.

Celebrate Independence Day on July 3 with a wonderful blend of melody and patriotism at the Red, White and Boom event in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City's Scissortail Park. Gather your loved ones, bring lawn chairs or cozy blankets, and enjoy a free concert offered by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic, conducted by Alexander Mickelthwate.

And on July 4 and 5, you can enjoy fireworks after the Tulsa Drillers games.

You can find 4th of July celebrations occurring July 3 in Fairview, Yukon and Owasso, and check out the Grand Lake Fireworks from the Grand River Dam.

Then on the Fourth, festivities will be happening in Vian, Stillwater, Pawhuska and Tonkawa to name a few.

For a more comprehensive list of 4th of July activities, go to Travelok.com.

The Oklahoma City Philharmonic plays July 3, 2018, during its Red, White and Boom! concert at the OKC Fairgrounds.
The Oklahoma City Philharmonic plays July 3, 2018, during its Red, White and Boom! concert at the OKC Fairgrounds.

More: Looking for 'far-out' adventures in Oklahoma? Panhandle offers hidden wonders

Dino Lalli is the co-host and one of the feature reporters for the weekly television travel show "Discover Oklahoma."

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Fourth of July events to check out across Oklahoma