OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla. — The Okaloosa County America 250 Commission is encouraging residents and visitors to celebrate Independence Day by attending the many patriotic events planned across the county as the nation marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Niceville.com Community Partner
The commission said the Fourth of July marks a historic milestone for the United States and provides an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s history, honor those who have contributed to its success, and look toward the future. Officials also noted Okaloosa County’s strong military heritage, its large veteran population, and its natural beauty as defining characteristics of the community.
Communities throughout the county have planned a variety of celebrations, including parades, live entertainment, family activities, patriotic displays, and fireworks.
“So much work and energy have gone into planning these wonderful celebrations in our community,” said Graham Fountain, chair of the Okaloosa County America 250 Commission. “I encourage everyone to experience these events and reflect on what makes this country the best in the world.”
“It’s important that we recognize what helped keep this country going strong for 250 years,” said Mitzi Henley, vice chair of the Okaloosa County America 250 Commission.
“Our determination, grit, and perseverance are what make this country great, and I know we will continue down this path of success for generations.”
Niceville.com Community Partner
Among the scheduled events:
Crestview
- July 4: Children’s bike parade at Twin Hills Park. Registration begins at the Crestview Police Department tent before the 5 p.m. parade.
- July 4: Party in the Park at Twin Hills Park featuring live music from Scale Fracture from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Cheyenne Band from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and a fireworks show at 9 p.m.
Fort Walton Beach
- July 1: Weekly fireworks at The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island beginning at 9 p.m.
- July 4: Fourth of July celebration at the Fort Walton Beach Landing beginning at 5 p.m. with food vendors, live music by Scratch 2020, and fireworks over Santa Rosa Sound.
- July 4: Freedom Festival at First United Methodist Church, 103 First St. SE, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., featuring food, children’s activities, and views of the city’s fireworks.
Destin
- July 1: Family Independence Day Celebration and Bike Parade for children ages 16 and younger at Destin Elementary School from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- July 3: Star-Spangled Food Truck Festival at Destin Commons from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., followed by fireworks at 9 p.m.
- July 4: City of Destin drone and fireworks show at Destin Harbor beginning around 9 p.m.
- July 4: HarborWalk Village Fourth of July celebration featuring live entertainment and the city’s fireworks display.
Niceville and Valparaiso
- July 1 through July 11: The Niceville Exchange Club’s Field of 250 Flags at the Air Force Armament Museum, with an opening ceremony scheduled for July 3.
- July 4: The annual Light Up the Bayou celebration begins at 3 p.m. at Lions Park in Niceville with food vendors, music, and fireworks at approximately 8:45 p.m. Fireworks may also be viewed from Lincoln Park in Valparaiso, where food trucks will be available.
The America 250 Commission encourages residents to participate in local celebrations while observing safety precautions throughout the holiday weekend.
Niceville.com Community Partner
