Florence, South Carolina – Florence is preparing for a Fourth of July celebration with extra meaning this year, as the city gets ready to mark both Independence Day and America’s 250th anniversary with a full evening of music, family activities, drones and fireworks.
The City of Florence will once again host Fireworks Over Florence on Saturday, July 4, at the Florence Soccer Complex, located at 3701 W. Palmetto Street. The event is free to attend and is being planned as one of the city’s largest community gatherings of the summer.
This year’s celebration will be presented by MUSC Health Florence Medical Center, which the city credited for helping make the event possible through its generous support. Officials said the sponsor’s contribution plays an important role in bringing the night together for residents and visitors.
The evening will begin when gates open at 5 p.m., following the opening of parking at the Soccer Complex at 4 p.m. From there, families will be able to settle in with lawn chairs and blankets, enjoy food and drinks available for purchase, and take part in several hours of entertainment.
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Live music will help set the tone early. Analog Saints are scheduled to perform at 5 p.m., followed by Tru Sol Band at 7 p.m. and again at 8:30 p.m.
For children, the Kids Zone will return from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. with new activities. This year’s family area will include a Touch-a-Truck experience and a special appearance by an All-American patriotic superhero, giving younger guests more to enjoy before the main nighttime shows begin.
Mayor Lethonia Barnes said the celebration carries special weight because of the national milestone.
“America’s 250th anniversary is a historic milestone, and we’re excited to celebrate it right here in Florence with a night full of energy, pride, and community spirit,” Barnes said.
The city is also planning two major sky shows. Guests can expect a 12- to 15-minute drone show, followed by 20-minute fireworks display to close out the night in patriotic fashion.
Coolers will not be permitted at the event, but food and beverages will be sold on site. Additional off-site parking will be available at Sneed Middle School, with Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority providing shuttle service from Sneed to the Soccer Complex.
Those interested in becoming a food vendor, volunteer or sponsor can contact Victoria Nash, Director of PRST, at 843-665-3253 or [email protected]. More city updates are available through the City of Florence.