Independence Day 2008

The Fourth of July is associated with family gatherings, celebrations, parades, picnics, and of course, fireworks.

The Fourth of July is associated with family gatherings, celebrations, parades, picnics, and of course, fireworks. Millions gather each year not only to watch large fireworks shows, but also to spark their own fireworks. The Castle of Muskogee offers a huge selection of pyrotechnic product lines.

The Castle owner and staff endeavor to provide the best in entertainment and service at many popular events throughout the year, including Independence Day celebrations. The Castle always offers the latest, top-of-the-line fireworks, and this year is no exception. The sheer quantity and range of selection is astonishing. The Castle’s spacious, air-conditioned atmosphere and ample parking make it optimal for shopping. Merchants are on hand to provide helpful, knowledgeable and friendly assistance. And a trip to the Castle of Muskogee is a highlight in and of itself.

Firework products range from small and safe for children to hundreds of items for teens and adults, including heavyweight and multiple action fireworks. Also offered are family packs, firework sets designed to deliver quality and quantity at a budget-friendly price.

The Castle of Muskogee is easily accessible and only a short drive from Tulsa. It is located at 3400 Fern Mountain Road in Muskogee, off Highway 69 between Interstate 40 and the Muskogee Turnpike. Items are for sale during the following days and hours: June 15 through 30 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., July 1 through 4 from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. and July 5 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Items are discounted July 5.

Call (918) 687-3625, or visit the website at www.okcastle.com for more information.

In addition to the fun of setting off fireworks, people from all over look forward to watching the huge sponsored fireworks extravaganzas. Here are some of the activities taking place:

Tulsa FreedomFest ’08

The annual fireworks display is shot from the 21st Street Bridge on the Fourth of July, with two whole days of activities for the family. At the River West Festival Park will be free kids’ activities and entertainment. Friday features four entertainment locations along the Arkansas River, two airplane parades, live music, free kids’ zones and the extravagant fireworks display beginning at 9:35 p.m. On Saturday, festivities continue with BMX rides and races, stunt teams and more. The Rivers Edge Bistro and Café will begin dining seating at 3 p.m., offering live music and entertainment for a small fee. 106.9 K-HITS will host their street party near the Zink Dam and Pedestrian Bridge, and Tulsa Parks is holding its annual American salute with a family picnic and concert at Veterans Park. Vendors will be on hand for food and beverage needs. Event hours are from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. July 4. For more information, visit the website at www.tulsasalutesfreedom.com.

Broken Arrow: Bands of Freedom

The Broken Arrow Blue Star Mothers will be presenting a benefit concert July 4 for veterans and their families at the First Baptist Church, located at 100 W. Albany in Broken Arrow. Dennis Jernigan, CO3, New Fire, Wayne Watson and Marty Magehee will each take the stage. Gates open at 3 p.m., and entertainment begins at 5 p.m. This event will celebrate our freedom and honor those whose sacrifices made it possible. Tickets are available at Mardel stores and through the website, www.bluestarfreedomconcert.org.

Skiatook

On July 3, Skiatook Airport will host the town’s fireworks celebration. Exchange Bank sponsors the event, which will include food, live bands and fireworks at dark. Hours are 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., and admission is free. For more information, call Stephanie Upton at (918) 396-3702.

The Sand Springs Sertoma Club

Sand Springs will hold their Independence Day fireworks display on July 3 at River City Parks, hosted by the Sand Springs Sertoma Club. Call (918) 245-3221 for more information, or go online to www.sandspringschamber.com

Claremore Lake Park

The Fourth of July at Claremore’s Lake Park is always a guaranteed day of fun. Concessions and live music will be available for festival-goers’ enjoyment, and a wonderful fireworks display begins between 9 and 9:30 p.m. Gates open at 5 p.m. Guests may park at the Will Rogers Stampede Arena and ride a shuttle to the event. Call (918) 341-2818 for more information.

Pryor

Just down the road from Claremore, Pryor will also be featuring a fantastic fireworks show at the football field. Hours are 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Sapulpa: “Freedom Days” and “American Celebrates America”

Kelly Lane Park is the site for “Freedom Days,” a family event with food, games and activities for everyone, sponsored by Sapulpa Parks and Recreation. Sapulpa's Independence Day celebrations continue with a wonderful fireworks display sponsored by American Heritage Bank in the evening. Fireworks will begin at 9:45 p.m. July 4. They are best viewed from behind Wal-Mart’s east fields.

Everyone at Value News offers their very best wishes for a lovely and safe Independence Day!