Weatherford to ‘blow you away’ with go-ahead for annual July 4th fireworks, concert

Weatherford Assistant Parks and Recreation Director Jaycob Kirkpatrick was so excited he was, well, ready for a celebration.

Kirkpatrick and the city received some exciting news recently when Gov. Greg Abbott lifted restrictions on outdoor events, a decision that allows the annual “Spark in the Park” July 4th event to continue.

“We are going to host the best ‘Spark in the Park’ yet,” Kirkpatrick said. “On July 4 at Heritage Park we’re going to celebrate Independence Day with a concert and a fireworks show that will blow you away.”

At first, the thinking was that only the fireworks show would be held in a drive-in style. Now, even though folks might still want to stay in their car, they can also enjoy a pair of concerts on the stage, Giovannie and the Hired Guns performing from 6:30-7:30 p.m., and headliner Jack Ingram from 7:45-9:15 p.m.

“After that, we’ll roll into the biggest and best fireworks show that we’ve had yet. You’re definitely going to want to stay for the grand finale,” Kirkpatrick said.

There will also be a variety of vendors on hand. The event grounds will open at 5:30 p.m. for seating, and visitors are asked to follow proper social distancing and consider wearing a mask.

Others not comfortable to go out in public yet are are invited to sit in one of the Heritage Park lots, or a variety of other locations around town, such as Weatherford College. A choreographed fireworks soundtrack can be heard on Chuck FM (102.5 or 88.5 FM). Fireworks will start at approximately 9:30 p.m.

More bang to choose from

Down the road in Hudson Oaks, the city will host its annual Boomin’ 4th celebration, albeit with a virtual twist. The evening will include a concert featuring Aaron Copeland and Wynn Williams, and, of course, fireworks to follow.

And the entire event will be broadcast on Hank FM (92.1), as well as on social media, including Facebook Live. Hank will play synchronized patriotic music coordinated with the fireworks show. In addition, the station will be visiting Hudson Oaks neighborhoods with their mobile broadcast van.