Heber Springs is definitely the place to be on Independence Day. The city is located in a picturesque area, surrounded by natural springs, Greers Ferry Lake, and the Little Red River, which draw in thousands of visitors throughout the year. Heber Springs and the nearby town of Pangburn both host annual events to celebrate American Independence.
Freedom Fest on the Lake (July 6, 2024)
Freedom Fest on the Lake is an amazing event for people of all ages. Typically, people gather on Sandy Beach on the lakeside of Greers Ferry Lake. This area boasts not only beautiful nature but also many shops, antique stores, and great restaurants, so you can make the most of your 4th of July weekend. This year marks the 4th annual Freedom Fest.
The festivities usually begin at 10 am with cardboard boat races, which set off from Sandy Beach. After noon, vendors open their booths, so you may wander around the lakeshore, buy some souvenirs, and even go for a mouthwatering lunch. And, as the sunset approaches, feel free to attend the famous Freedom Fest Concert, which normally starts at 7 pm and lasts for about 2 hours. The lineup changes every year, but some of the most popular local music acts are sure to be included.
Greers Ferry Lake Fireworks Extravaganza (July 6, 2024)
Of course, no Independence Day party is possible without a magnificent fireworks display. The municipality of Heber Springs has prepared a massive one-of-a-kind show for its residents and guests of the city as part of the Freedom Fest concert. The organizers manage to up their game every year and it shows—around 10,000 people visit Heber Springs just for the Fireworks Extravaganza.
The pyrotechnic performance usually starts at 9 pm, but you may want to arrive earlier to get the best viewing spot. The fireworks are launched directly above Greers Ferry Lake, creating a stunning reflection on the water. The display is simultaneously choreographed to breathtaking music from the local radio station 101.9 the Lake-KSUG.
Activities in Heber Springs
If you decide to stick around after the 4th of July celebration, Heber Springs has a lot more to offer. Multiple resorts and retreats, like the popular Red Apple Inn & Country Club, welcome guests with open arms any time of the year. The surrounding area offers many hiking trails, for example to Bridal Veil Falls or Sugarloaf Mountain.
Pangburn 4th of July Celebration (July 4, 2024)
If you're up for a little adventure, you're welcome to swing by the town of Pangburn, situated just 15 miles (24 km) away from Heber Springs. The local community is extremely close-knit, holding a vibrant Independence Day celebration every year. The event usually takes place in Pangburn City Park from 9:45 am to 9 pm, ending with the fireworks display. Entry is free, although some activities may be subject to a fee.
Entertainment Schedule
The festivities normally begin with the legendary Pangburn Auto Parts Toilet Race at 9:45 am and continue with a celebratory parade in Downtown Pangburn at 10 am. Aside from the traditional program, guests will have a chance to witness and even participate in a car show, taking place on a local baseball field, and a Horseshoe Pitching Contest. The Pangburn City Park stage won't be empty either, with several local bands and musicians entertaining the crowd.
The park will be full of local food vendors, offering treats and refreshments, so consider staying around for a mouthwatering barbecue dinner, which usually takes place at 5 pm. The grand finale of the evening, the fireworks display, normally begins at 9 pm after dark. Grab a blanket or a lawn chair, sit back, and watch the glorious splash of colors over the dark canopy of the sky.
