Time: 2024-07-04
The Georgetown-Ridge Farm school district's band director, Paige Smith, has been working hard to increase the marching band's numbers and bring back performances at local parades and events. With the band growing to 29 high school members and expecting to reach 60 to 70 members soon, they are gearing up for the upcoming Champaign County Freedom Celebration Fourth of July parade in Champaign and Urbana. This year's performance will feature the band playing "You're a Grand Old Flag" at 11:05 a.m., alongside Champaign Edison's jazz band.
Looking beyond the Fourth of July parade, there are plenty of other events happening in Champaign County to celebrate Independence Day weekend. The Audiofeed Music Festival at the Champaign County Fairgrounds in Urbana will feature live music, artists, and speakers from various genres. Meanwhile, Imagine That will be performing at the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater in Decatur, with a fireworks show to follow over Lake Decatur.
For those looking for a fun Friday night, the First Fridays Downtown Carnival in Danville will offer rides, food, and entertainment for all ages. And at Allerton Park in Monticello, attendees can enjoy an outdoor concert with Billy Galt & the Blues Deacons followed by James Armstrong at Reds, Whites & the Blues event.
On Saturday, Hessel Park in Champaign will host a free summer concert series event featuring Magnolia Janes. Lastly, the Moultrie-Douglas County Fair in Arthur will kick off on Sunday, offering a week-long celebration with art, pageants, live music, and more.
With a mix of parades, concerts, and festivals, Champaign County residents have plenty of options to enjoy the holiday weekend and celebrate Independence Day in style.