Fourth of July celebrations mark America’s birthday

By Payton Weidman

Staff Writer

Looking for things to do this Fourth of July?  Well look no further, here’s a list of the celebrations going on in or nearby Van Zandt County.

ATHENS – Saturday, July 4 at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center after 4 p.m. free admission for the annual firework show will begin.

Visitors are encouraged to fish in the stocked pond until 8:30 p.m.  No license is required to fish, and bait and tackle are furnished for free.

The fireworks will begin at 9 p.m.  Food and beverages will be available for purchase, and people are encouraged to bring picnics.

Pets, alcohol and private fireworks, including “snap caps” and sparklers are not allowed.  TFFC is a tobacco-free facility and smoking or the use of tobacco products are not allowed on the premises.

Parking is available in the main TFFC parking lot and in an overflow parking area on Peninsula Point Road.  People using the overflow parking area may enter through Gate C, which is across the street from the parking area.

For more information call 903-676-2277.

BEN WHEELER – Saturday, July 4 at 4 p.m. Pickin’ Porch Line Up includes: Thomas Wade, Kid Icarus, Chris Colston and then fireworks at dusk.

Moore’s Store features Thieving Birds at 9 p.m.  Purchase tickets on MooresStore.com $10 online or $15 at the door.

CALLENDER LAKE – Saturday, July 4 at 9:30 a.m. the Land Parade starts.  Line up for the parade is at 9 a.m.  Decorate your bike, golf cart, truck, car or other vehicle and come join the fun and celebrate America’s birthday.

Lunch is from 12 to 1 p.m. at the Community Center.  An adult plate is $5.00 for grilled hamburgers and hot dogs, chips and a drink.  Kids under 5 years eat free hot dogs, chips and a drink.

The boat parade starts at 6 p.m.  Decorate your boat, pontoon or any other watercraft and join in.

CANTON – The Fourth of July will be a non-stop celebration in Canton complete with parades, parties, First Monday and fireworks.

The Canton Chamber of Commerce Fourth of July activities begin with a watermelon eating contest on the downtown square at 6 p.m. Saturday, July 4. It’s free to enter and prizes will be awarded.

Sign up by calling the Chamber at 903-567-2991. 

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