Clinton prepares for Red, White and Blue Fest on the Fourth

By Randy Bell

In addition to celebrating the nation’s birthday at Traceway Park, Clintonians will get their first look at the new lights on the park’s athletic fields during the 35th Red, White and Blue Fest on the Fourth of July.

The City is spending $7.5 million on what’s been called the largest LED sports lighting project in Mississippi history, and every effort has been made to have the lights ready when the crowds arrive on July 4.

Parks and Recreation Director Courtney Nunn says the main gates will open at 4 p.m., along with the Fun Zone, which will feature bounce houses, obstacle courses, corn hole and other games.

Entertainment starts with Keyrus A.T.G performing at 5:45 p.m., followed by his brother, Jarekus Singleton, at 7:15 p.m.

A 15-minute fireworks show will wrap up the celebration at 9 p.m.

Nunn told the Board of Aldermen in April that she wants this year’s Fourth of July celebration to be “memorable for everybody.”

Admission to the Red, White and Blue Fest is free, but parking is $10 per car. Plenty of food vendors will be on site, including Mazzio’s, Dad’s Dogs, Lucy’s Lemonade and Sno Biz, with more to be added.

Tents, chairs and coolers are allowed, but may not be dropped off early.

No dogs are allowed, and the City reminds the public that Traceway Park is a smoke- and alcohol-free facility.