All for one, fun for all: Celebrations abound at Provo’s Freedom Fest
Santiago Rojas rides a carnival ride while celebrating Freedom Days on Thursday, July 2, 2015 in downtown Provo. The festival is part of a multi-day event in Provo ending with the Stadium of Fire concert at Lavell Edwards Stadium on July 4. SAMMY JO HESTER, The Daily Herald
The ferris wheel lights up the nights during Freedom Days on Thursday, July 2, 2015 in downtown Provo. The festival is part of a multi-day event in Provo ending with the Stadium of Fire concert at Lavell Edwards Stadium on July 4. SAMMY JO HESTER, The Daily Herald
Jeff Bramble sets up the crown of Stars and Stripes, Senator Bramble's balloon, during America's Freedom Festival Balloon Fest in Provo on Thursday, July 2, 2015. GRANT HINDSLEY, Daily Herald
Hot air balloons float above Provo with Mount Timpanogos as a backdrop during America's Freedom Festival Balloon Fest on Thursday, July 2, 2015. GRANT HINDSLEY, Daily Herald
Runners approach the finish line at Kiwanis Park during Provo's Freedom Run as a hot air balloon lands in the distance Saturday, July 4, 2009.
A runner runs past a sign advertising Provo's upcoming Freedom Festival and Stadium of Fire at Lavell Edwards Stadium on Wednesday.
The Freedom Fest is now underway and as exciting as ever. Check out this article for some tips on what to do and what to see!
Balloon Fest
The main fun begins on Friday, July 1, at 6 a.m. (I know it’s so early, but it’s definitely worth it). Head over to 1100 N. Freedom Blvd. in Provo to watch the hot air balloons inflate as a precursor to the Balloon Fest. There will be about 25 balloons getting ready to fly into the air. The Balloon Fest will end at 8:00 a.m., so make sure you get there on time.
If you miss it on Friday, don’t fret. The Balloon Fest will continue on Saturday (July 2) and Sunday (July 4). This event is perfect for kids or even a romantic, early morning date. Just pack a breakfast, take a blanket, and watch the hot air balloons launch and fly up into the air. Tal about magical. This event is completely free!
Freedom Days
As with any great celebration, the Freedom Festival includes Freedom Days, complete with a carnival, rides, entertainment and food. Set your schedule: the event will be held Friday from 5 to 11 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Monday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
If you need handicap parking, that will be available at the church located on 150 E. 200 South (in Provo). Other than that, prepare yourself for fun all day long!
Grand Parade
The Grand Parade is on Monday (July 4), and starts at 9 a.m. The parade will begin at 960 N. University Ave. and proceed south to 100 S. before turning east to 200 E. From there it goes north to Center St. and then turns east again, ending at 900 E.
You will be able to see bands, floats, giant balloons, local performances, marching bands, music and dancing. So much dancing! The parade is said to bring about 300,000 spectators, so make sure you get there early. Or you can camp out, along University Avenue, the night before.
Starting at 3 p.m. July 1, you can take your tent, camping chairs, blankets, sleeping bags, or anything that will hold your place. I’ve seen people hook up their TVs (don’t ask me how) and game systems and play games all night. I’ve seen other people play card games and board games. Get creative — it’s pretty fun and worth doing at least once in your life. The energy that fills the streets is unlike any other.
Take note, though: at least one person has to be on site for your spot to be considered reserved. The waiting lasts all through the night and can be pretty lively, so remember to take that into consideration, too.
Stadium of Fire
At 8 p.m. Saturday, the LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo will welcome Tim McGraw with roars and whistles from approximately 40,000 people! Tim McGraw will sing and woo. His performance will be followed by an epic firework show. You don’t have to be in the stadium to see this show. Save some money on tickets and head near the stadium to watch the fireworks for free with your loved ones.
Freedom Run
On Monday, July 4 (Happy Independence Day!), the city of Provo will start the celebration at Kiwanis Park with a 5K, 10K and a one mile fun run! Don’t forget to dress up, some of the costumes I’ve seen in the past are pretty impressive! Strollers are allowed, and you will still be able to see hot air balloons launch at 6 a.m. ride rides, play games and eat carnival food (turkey leg anyone?) one last time before the celebrations end at 8 p.m.
I hope everyone has fun this weekend seeing hot air balloons, joining the patriotic run and watching fireworks. Remember to stay safe this Fourth of July!
