Alachua’s Star-Spangled Celebration Draws Big Crowd

ALACHUA ‒ With bursts of color illuminating the night sky and patriotic music echoing through Legacy Park, the City of Alachua welcomed thousands to its 25th Annual Fourth of July Celebration — an event that has earned its title as the “Largest Small-Town Fireworks Display in America.”

Held Friday evening, July 4, the celebration offered more than just a fireworks show. It was a full evening of food, live entertainment, and community pride, reflecting the spirit and hospitality that define the Good Life Community.

As the community gathered under darkening skies, city leaders took time to recognize the deeper meaning of Independence Day. In his public message, Mayor Walter Welch emphasized appreciation for the men and women of the Armed Forces who have made sacrifices to secure the freedoms Americans enjoy.

“Let’s also be vigilant of the sacrifices made by so many in our Armed Forces,” Welch said. “These brave men and women have served so that we can live freely, without fear of oppression and condemnation.”

City Manager Rodolfo Valladares echoed that message, urging guests to reflect on the values of unity and liberty. “Despite our differences in race, culture, background or political views, we can still stand united as one,” Valladares said.

The evening kicked off with high-energy live music from Gainesville-based band Crooked Counsel. Lead singer Shuri Pass and her powerhouse vocals, alongside longtime bandmates John Middleton, Donnie Ray Henley, Rick Hutton, and bassist Kenny, delivered a crowd-pleasing set of hits spanning from the 1960s to today.

Attendees enjoyed a wide array of food vendors, from barbecue and gelati to Cuban favorites and carnival-style snacks. Local businesses such as Bone of My Bone BBQ, Mi Apa Latin Café, Kona Ice, Lazy Days Lemonade, and Big Mills added flavor to the night.

Children and families explored the grounds, played games, and lined up at food trucks, while others settled on blankets and lawn chairs near the amphitheater for a prime view of the show.

The highlight of the evening came at 9:30 p.m. when the sky lit up in a dazzling fireworks display synchronized to patriotic music, including the National Anthem. The display drew applause, cheers, and cell phone flashes from a crowd that filled the park.

Planning and executing an event of this scale required months of preparation and the dedication of many. The city’s Fourth of July Committee, chaired by City Manager Valladares and co-chaired by Damon Messina and Jack Hansen, included a team of staff, volunteers, and public safety officials committed to delivering a safe, memorable experience.

For residents and visitors alike, Alachua’s Fourth of July celebration has become more than just an event—it’s a tradition.

Whether a long-time local or first-time visitor, guests were reminded why Alachua continues to be known as “The Good Life Community.”

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