SATURDAY, JULY 2
Independence Day Celebration 2016 at Laurel Park
This is the 53rd year the Paul E. Bolding Post 7 of the American Legion has hosted a 4th of July celebration on the shores of Lake Lanier. This year's festivities are scheduled for all day Saturday, July 2 at Laurel Park at 3100 Old Cleveland Road in Gainesville. Concerts are scheduled throughout the day and night, kids activities and concessions are part of the celebration, and of course, one of the biggest fireworks shows in North Georgia happens at dusk. The cost is $10 per vehicle with all proceeds going to support veterans' programs in the area. Rain date is July 3.
32nd annual Lake Burton Fun Run
A two-mile jog on the edge of beautiful Lake Burton from Moccasin Creek State Park to LaPrade’s Marina. A certified race with games, prizes, drawings, kids play, biscuits and adult beverages available post-race. Racers also receive a commemorative t-shirt designed by local artist Courtney West. Sign-up is limited to 1,000 runners and has sold out the last two years. Sign up at lakeburtonfunrun.com. Paper applications will be available at LaPrade’s Marina June 29-30 & July 1st if space is still available.
Race fee is $30 and all monies stay in Rabun County for various charitable efforts.
Lanier Islands Patriotic Celebration
A four-day-long celebration at Lake Lanier Islands features music, dancing, beachfront concerts, fireworks and a patriotic presentation on the Spectacular Screen. Active military, police and fire fighters admission is free with a valid ID.
SUNDAY, JULY 3
Sparks in the Park in Sugar Hill
The city of Sugar Hill celebrates Independence Day at E. Robinson Park. Starting at 6 p.m., the city opens up the park to visitors to enjoy inflatables, live music, concessions and fireworks. A full schedule and a list of vendors is available at the city website.
MONDAY, JULY 4
Celebrate Braselton!
Braselton’s centennial year sets the stage for a family-oriented honor of America on Monday, July 4. A spirited festival will take center stage in the historic Braselton Park with food and craft vendors, live entertainment, games and festivities. The festival will begin at 4 p.m. The traditional parade will begin at 6 p.m. downtown. US Army Infantry Captain Levi Floeter is the grand marshal. The parade will also feature a giant US flag, festive floats and Scarlett, the standard poodle recently crowned as the town’s centennial dog. At dusk, patrons will witness a spectacular fireworks display sponsored by the Braselton Visitors Bureau.
Annual Steam Engine Parade - Cumming
The Forsyth County Steam Association comes together each July 4 to present the Thomas-Mashburn Memorial Parade in celebration of Independence Day. The 4th of July parade proudly showcases a unique collection of steam engines, antique cars, marching bands, local ball teams, firetrucks, celebrities and much more! The parade - a tradition since 1957 - steps off at 10 a.m. on Monday, July 4 at the Cumming Fairgrounds just off the downtown square. To find out more, visiti the City of Cumming
website.
Dahlonega's 4th of July Celebration
This annual celebration starts bright and early with the 5th Annual Firecracker 5K/10K, continues with an All American Market during the day, a parade at 5 p.m. and fireworks at dark. To get a complete schedule, check the Celebration website.
Sparks in the Motorsports Park - Dawsonville
The city of Dawsonville celebrates Independence day from 4 - 10 p.m. at the Motorsports Park on Duck Thurmond Road. Games, food and fireworks make for an exciting Fourth of July. Check out the city's
website for more information.
Glorious 4th of July Celebration - Demorest
One of the largest 4th of July celebrations happens every year in Demorest in Habersham County. This year's event starts with an 11 a.m. parade through downtown Demorest. A day-long festival includes food, arts & crafts and kids activities. The day wraps up with a concert by John King and a huge fireworks display.
Editor's Note: If you have an event you would like to add to our list, please email details to [email protected].
