FRIDAY, JULY 3rd EVENTS
4 – 6:30 pm – Archives Museum Open House (5515 Woodlawn Ave)
Step back in time and explore Ralston’s rich history during this special open house at the Archives Museum. Visitors can browse exhibits, view historical artifacts, and learn more about the people and events that helped shape our community.
5:30 – 7:30 pm – Picnic on the Green & Pie Bake Off(Granary Green) – Register
Bring your family, friends, lawn chairs, and blankets for an evening of food, live music, and community connection. Enjoy a relaxing picnic atmosphere as neighbors gather to kick off the holiday celebration, featuring live music from Hector Anchondo.
Picnic: Food and beverage available for purchase. Trinity United Methodist Church
Funds raised support local Easter Egg Hunt and other great community activities.
Amateur Pie Baking Contest/Pie & Ice Cream Social: Register for Pie, Brownie, or Bar BakeOff! Pie, Brownies, Bars and ice cream available for purchase during the picnic. Glow Church: Funds raised support giving brand new pairs of shoes to Ralston Students in need this coming fall.
7 – 9:30 pm – Family Street Dance (Downtown: 77th and Main St.)
Join us downtown for one of Ralston’s favorite family traditions. Enjoy music from the DJShawn Farrel, rock climbing, face painters, a stilt walker, strolling magician, caricature artists, food trucks, and plenty of activities for all ages as Main Street comes alive with Independence Day spirit.
8:30 – 11:30 pm – Lemon Fresh Days Concert (Granary Green – 7401 Main St. – 21+ event)
Adults are invited to enjoy a night of live music and entertainment under the summer sky. Gather with friends for an evening of great music, refreshments, and community celebration at Granary Green.
10 pm – Fireworks Show at the Liberty First Credit Union Arena (73rd and Q St.)
Cap off the evening with Ralston’s spectacular fireworks display. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a dazzling show celebrating America’s 250th Birthday. The show will be broadcast live on News Channel Nebraska.
Saturday, JULY 4th EVENTS (More Details to be Added Later)
7:30 – 9 am – Optimist Fun Run/Walk (register with the Optimists)
Start Independence Day with a healthy and fun community tradition. Participants of all ages are welcome to run, walk, and celebrate the holiday together.
9:15 – 9:45 am – Kick-Off 250 Ceremony hosted by the Sons of the American Revolution and Daughters of the American Revolution (Independence Square)
Join community leaders, veterans, and special guests as we officially begin the day’s festivities with a patriotic ceremony honoring America’s 250th Birthday and the values that unite our nation.
10 – 10:30 am – Children’s Parade (Independence Square – line up 9:30 am – Walk from 77th and Main St. to 75th and Main and Back)
Young patriots are invited to decorate bikes, wagons, scooters, and strollers and take part in this festive parade. Families are encouraged to come cheer on the participants as they help kick off the celebration. Awards sponsored by Baright Library and Ground Zero.
10:30 am – LaDonna Johnson Fountain Dedication (Independence Square)
Join us for the dedication of the LaDonna Johnson Fountain as we recognize a lasting contribution to the community and celebrate this special addition to Independence Square.
11 – 12:30 pm – Parade Line Up (Parade Entries ONLY – Enter at 84th and Lakeview St.)
1 pm – Parade Through Ralston (Start at 80th and Highland St., east on Oakwood – turns into Miller Ave., east on Main St., End at Main and 73rd St.)
The annual Independence Day Parade returns with community organizations, businesses, civic groups, performers, and patriotic displays. Find a spot along the route and enjoy one of Ralston’s most cherished traditions as we celebrate America’s 250th Birthday together.
3:30 – 4 pm – Fire Department Water Fights (Independence Square)
Cool off after the parade with this exciting and entertaining tradition featuring local fire departments. Spectators and participants alike can enjoy some friendly competition and plenty of water-filled fun.
3:30 – 4:30 pm – After Parade Cool Down Party (Granary Green)
Keep the celebration going with a foam party, bouncy house slides, and family-friendly activities. It’s the perfect opportunity for kids and families to relax, play, and enjoy the remainder of the holiday afternoon together.
