Get ready to show your patriotic stripes, folks! Surprise is laying out the stars and stripes for a traditional Fourth of July with a twist of local flavor. According to details released by the city, the Independence Day Celebration on July 4 promises a classic roster of food trucks, kid-friendly activities, and a you-guessed-it, fireworks spectacle set to light the sky at 8:45 p.m.
But why wait for darkness when you can party all day? The bash kicks off with music, a baseball game, and even a pool party for those looking to beat the Arizona heat. Admission to these pre-fireworks festivities? Free of charge—though the city wouldn't say boo to a can of food for donation. As said by an announcement on the City of Surprise website, "While some viewing locations are free, canned food donations are appreciated!"
Mark Coronado Park is where the lion's share of festivities will unfold. Starting at 6 p.m., a DJ will be spinning tracks to get the crowd going. Kids can bounce to their heart's content with inflatables, and when hunger strikes, a feast on wheels will be lined up on Bullard Avenue. But remember, folks—no personal grills or booze. The name of the game here is hydration, so bring the water bottles but leave the alcohol home.
For baseball aficionados, Surprise Stadium will play host to a minor league showdown between the Oakland A’s and Texas Rangers. First pitch is at 5 p.m., which gives you plenty of time to grab a seat and settle in before the stadium gets repurposed for prime fireworks viewing post-game. Note that the usual bag policies are in effect, so pack light and pack right.
Now, for the water babies out there, the Surprise Aquatic Center is throwing an aquatic bash from 6 to 9 p.m., dubbed the Red, White and Pool Party. Tickets are a steal at $6 per head and go on sale starting June 17. Space is capped at 400, so make like a dolphin and dive in quick to snag your spot. Afterward, patrons can stick around for a poolside view of the crackling fireworks.
Heads up on some logistical notes: a bunch of roads, including Bullard Avenue between Tierra Buena and Paradise Lane, will be putting on the 'closed' sign from 2 - 10 p.m. But no fretting over where to park your ride; there's plenty of parking in the periphery of the fireworks zone, including City buildings around the stadium and various overflow lots.
And it's not all fun and games without a nod to safety. Personal fireworks are a big no-no—leave it to the pros and keep your furry friends leashed. As for grilling, communal grills are the order of the day, and those pop-up tents better be anchored down! "Leave the fireworks to the pros!" the city's website cautions. Next up, time to slather on the sunscreen, fill water bottles, and ready your trash-tossing arm, because it's going to be one heck of a sparkling July 4th in Surprise.
