Fourth of July festivities have a new location this year in Adair County. As everyone comes together to celebrate Independence Day, the 250th anniversary of the United States of America will also be celebrated.
As part of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration, children are encouraged to paint rocks and place them in flower beds around the Public Square. The project is intended to commemorate the anniversary of the United States while adding a patriotic touch to downtown Columbia.
The City of Columbia is sponsoring a home and business decorating contest. Judging will take place July 3, and participation is free. Winners will receive prizes. To register, contact City Hall at 270-384-2501.
Events on Friday night, July 3, include Columbia Nights shopping. Stores will be open until 8 p.m. on the square and around town. Jack Fishback will be performing from 6 p.m. until 7 p.m. on the Public Square.
Thunder Over Casey Creek, hosted by Casey County Pyrotechnics, will also be held on Friday night. Concessions will begin at 5 p.m. at 17121 Knifley Rd. This annual family friendly event will offer food, fellowship, and fireworks at dark. Everyone is invited to bring their lawn chairs and join the fun.
On Saturday, July 4, Independence on the Grounds will begin at 3 p.m. at the Adair County Fairgrounds, 256 Industrial Park Rd. There will be train rides, food vendors and fun for everyone.
The nostalgic family fun games will be back this year. There will be games and competitions for all ages, including the classic watermelon eating contest, egg toss and needle in a haystack. Ribbons will be awarded to winners.
A weight casting competition with a $50 cash prize will be held. Participants attempt to throw a weight from 200 feet and land it in a bucket. If there is a tie, there will be a cast off to determine the winner.
New this year are family fun team games. Families and friends can enter a team of four participants with two alternates and compete for $500. The first 10 teams to register by calling Charles Grimsley at 270-634-2253 will participate. Names will be placed on a list in the order in which they registered.
Participants in the games are encouraged to bring a change of clothing.
City of Columbia Cruise-In Block Party for all car enthusiasts will be in the parking lot of Priceless from 5 p.m. until after the fireworks.
The Annual Fireworks Show by Casey Creek Pyrotechnics, sponsored by the City of Columbia and the Adair County Fiscal Court, will be held at the Joe Johnson Little League Park, 170 Doc Walker Rd. The fireworks show will begin at dark.
Parking for the fireworks will be available at the Adair County Fairgrounds and at Joe Johnson Little League Park up to the first ball field.
