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62nd annual event to feature live music, amusement rides and more

COLUMBUS—The Town of Columbus has announced its 62nd annual Fabulous 4th of July Festival schedule. Scheduled for Friday, July 4, this year’s event promises performances and events tailored to various interests and ages.

The festival will commence at 10 a.m. with an opening ceremony featuring a presentation of colors by the Polk County Honor Guard. Then, Anita Williamson will sing the National Anthem and Columbus Mayor Pat McCool will deliver the opening remarks.

Carolina bluesman Patrick Ballard will kick off the musical performances at 10:10 a.m., serenading the crowd with his guitar blues and patriotic tunes. At 11 a.m., Bobby Wynn will perform original songs influenced by contemporary, folk, and Celtic styles.

In addition to the live music, the festival will feature an Antique Car Show on Gibson St., adjacent to the courthouse, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sponsored by the Little Detroit Car Club of the Great Smoky Mountain Region, attendees can cast their votes for their favorite classic cars, with winners announced later that afternoon.

For families attending, there’s no shortage of activities for children, including a dunking booth and water games, which will be available on the lawn of Stearns Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., all sponsored by Crossroads Baptist Church. The amusement rides, including a Ferris wheel, will operate on Thursday, July 3, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and continue on Friday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

A special Veteran’s Hour will be held on the main stage from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., featuring members of the American Legion and the VFW. 

As the afternoon progresses, the entertainment continues from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. with bluegrass from Mark Queen & Greg Trollinger, followed by Jennifer Allsbrook, who will entertain with popular and contemporary rock tunes.

Starting at 4 p.m., the festival will transition into a lively evening concert featuring bands playing a mix of rock, country, blues, and original music. Highlighted acts include Blues Underground, Red Dog and Friends, and Misdemeanor with John Edney, culminating with Silver Travis, who will perform classic rock favorites at 8:30 p.m.

The day’s grand finale will take place at 9:45 p.m. when the Silver Travis band will perform the Star-Spangled Banner. This will lead to a spectacular 20-minute fireworks display.

With a variety of food, crafts, and vendors, the Fabulous 4th of July Festival in Columbus is poised to be a fantastic celebration of community spirit. For more information about vendor opportunities and festival details, visit the Town of Columbus website or contact the town office directly.