Independence Day in Edmond, Oklahoma, is more than a holiday. It’s a week-long festival, a city-wide tradition, and a reason to gather with friends, family, and a few thousand of your closest neighbors. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Edmond’s LibertyFest is the place to be for July 4th.
Why July 4th Matters
Independence Day marks the birth of the United States, celebrated every year on July 4th. It’s a day for remembering the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and appreciating the freedoms that followed. The day is packed with fireworks, parades, and more than a few hot dogs. In Edmond, this spirit is alive and well, and you’re invited to join the fun.
LibertyFest: Edmond’s Star-Spangled Celebration
LibertyFest is not just Edmond’s biggest party. It’s one of the top ten Independence Day festivals in the entire country, according to CNN and USA Today. The festival has been running strong for over 50 years and now draws more than 125,000 visitors each year. If you want a hometown celebration with big-time energy, this is it.
LibertyFest isn’t a one-day event. It’s a whole week of activities, each one designed to keep the spirit of Independence Day alive and well. Here’s what you can expect in 2025:
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Concert in the Park: Kick things off with live music under the stars at the University of Central Oklahoma campus, right next to Mitchell Hall. Bring a blanket, grab some snacks, and enjoy the sounds of summer on June 26 at 7:30 PM.
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Rodeo: On June 27 and 28, Carl Benne Arena hosts a classic rodeo. Bull riding, roping, and plenty of cowboy hats make this a must-see.
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Car Show & ParkFest: June 28 at Hafer Park is all about classic cars, live jazz, food vendors, and family fun. This is also the day for the Liberty JazzFest, so expect some toe-tapping tunes.
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Patriotic Trivia Night: July 2 is for the trivia buffs. Test your knowledge and maybe win a prize or two.
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Patriotic Radio Show: On July 3, tune in for vintage tunes and stories that set the mood for the big day.
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Songs & Stripes: Big Band Show: Also on July 3, the Edmond History Museum brings 1940s USO-style entertainment from 5 to 8 PM.
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Patriotic Parade: The big parade rolls through Downtown Edmond on July 4 at 9 AM. Over 50,000 people line the 1.5-mile route, waving flags and cheering on the floats.
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Fireworks: The grand finale happens July 4 at 9:30 PM in Hafer Park. This is the biggest fireworks show in the Oklahoma City metro area, and it’s guaranteed to dazzle.
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LibertySprint 5K and Fun Run: July 5 at Mitch Park is for runners, walkers, and anyone who wants to burn off that extra slice of pie. The event is family-friendly and dog-friendly.
Where to Go and What to Do
Downtown Edmond is the heart of the action on July 4th. The parade is a must-see, but don’t forget to check out the local shops and restaurants along the way. If you’re looking for a spot to relax, Hafer Park is the place for picnics, fireworks, and family games. For those who want to cool off, Arcadia Lake offers swimming, boating, and fishing.
Mitch Park is the spot for the LibertySprint and a great place to stretch your legs. If you’re a fan of classic cars, Hafer Park’s Car Show is the place to be. And for a taste of local culture, the Edmond History Museum hosts the Songs & Stripes show and offers a peek into the city’s past.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Independence Day
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Arrive Early: Edmond’s events draw big crowds, especially the parade and fireworks. Get there early to snag a good spot.
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Bring Lawn Chairs and Blankets: Comfort is key, especially for the Concert in the Park and fireworks.
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Stay Hydrated: July in Oklahoma can be toasty. Pack water and sunscreen.
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Explore Local Eats: With nearly 200 restaurants in Edmond, you’ll find everything from barbecue to international cuisine. Try a new spot or revisit an old favorite.
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Check the Schedule: Events run from late June through July 5. Visit the LibertyFest website for the latest updates and full schedule.
More Than Just Fireworks
LibertyFest is about community, tradition, and a little bit of friendly competition. Whether you’re cheering at the rodeo, singing along at the big band show, or racing in the LibertySprint, you’re part of something special. Edmond’s Independence Day celebration brings people together, and that’s what makes it shine.
So grab your flags, put on your red, white, and blue, and join Edmond for a Fourth of July that’s packed with fun, music, and memories. This is Independence Day the Edmond way—full of heart, history, and a whole lot of sparkle.
Sources: nationaldaycalendar.com, wikihow.com, libertyfest.org
Header Image Source: libertyfest.org
