Downtown Beaumont to host 37th annual Fourth of July celebration

Image
  • .

    .

    .
Body

It’s been long-standing event for more than three decades as the City of Beaumont presents the biggest Fourth of July celebration in Southeast Texas on Tuesday, July 4, from 5-9 p.m. at the Downtown Event Centre and Lake. This year’s event promises an unforgettable experience for attendees, featuring an incredible lineup of live performances, delicious food options from local food trucks, and a mesmerizing fireworks display.  

“The event has become an annual tradition for families across the region to join together as we celebrate our great nation,” said Emily Wheeler, director of event services. “We welcome people from near and far to join us in creating lasting memories with their families, neighbors, and friends”

“Admission to this exciting event is absolutely free, ensuring that everyone in Beaumont and beyond can join in the celebration of our nation’s independence.” 

Local food trucks will offer a selection of food, beverages and sweet treats for sale including KO Korean Grill, Rudy’s Kabobs, Old West Smoke Company, The Bread Bus, Broke Boyz, Kona Ice, Mabel’s Snow Cones and Mexican Treats, Stuart’s Fresh Squeezed Lemonade, Terrell’s Ice Cream, Cracklin’ Kings, Tacos El Primo, La Real Michocana and The Dudes Food.

Performing on the music stage will be local talent Catalina Wine Mixer, a group whose music transcends genres such as “yacht rock,” the dynamic Flava Band, who never fails to get the crowd moving with their R&B party vibes, and headliner Mike and the Moonpies.

For more than a decade, Mike Harmeier and his band of hard-touring road warriors –pedal steel player Zach Moulton, guitarist Catlin Rutherford, bassist Omar Oyoque along with new drummer Taylor Englert – have traveled far beyond their Austin, Texas homeland, flying the flag for homegrown Texas music in more than a dozen countries. 

They’ve become global ambassadors of a blue-collar country sound, striking a balance between timeless influences and cool, contemporary appeal. Along the way, they’ve stretched their legs, following the breakthrough success of records like “Steak Night at the Prairie Rose,” “Silver & Solid Country Gold (an album inspired by the classic countrypolitan hits of the early 1970s, and recorded at Abbey Road Studios with help from the London Symphony Orchestra) and “Touch of You: The Lost Songs of Gary Stewart” (a collection of nine unreleased songs written by the honky-tonk hero). Their latest effort is titled, “One to Grow On.”

In addition to the festivities on the grounds of the Event Centre(700 Crockett St.), a special patriotic performance by the Symphony of Southeast Texas (SOST) will take place inside the Julie Rogers Theatre (765 Pearl St.) at 8 p.m., which is also free to attend. 

“The symphony is pleased to help our community celebrate its birthday,” said Doug Fair, executive director of the SOST. “Joining us will be the choir from St Mark’s Episcopal Church. We are most grateful for the support of ExxonMobil, H-E-B and Mobiloil Credit Union. Come out to this free concert and let’s celebrate together.”

According to Fair, patrons that do venture to the Julie Rogers Theatre will hear patriotic tunes such as “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” “Armed Forces Salute” and much more.  

John Adams envisioned a great anniversary festival after the Declaration of Independence was adopted July 4, 1776, Beaumont Events is doing the same as the evening will conclude with a massive fireworks display above the downtown skyline at 9 p.m. 

Lawn chairs, blankets and coolers are permitted, but will be subject to search. No outside alcohol may be brought in to the event. Early arrival is strongly encouraged.

Wheeler also acknowledged the City of Beaumont extends its gratitude to Del Papa Distributing for their generous support as the event’s sponsor and appreciates their continued commitment to the community.