Fourth of July events continue this week around the area
Many Fourth of July fireworks displays and other events occurred over the weekend in Ozark County and nearby areas, but the fun’s not over yet. The holiday events listed here are planned for this week. The fireworks displays are free and open to everyone. Some of the other activities, including games, food vendors and other fundraiser offerings, may have charges or request donations.
Tuesday, July 3
• PONTIAC. Fireworks will begin at dark on Tuesday, July 3, over Bull Shoals Lake at Pontiac Cove. The Fried and Frozen food truck will be set up beginning around 6 p.m., and Just Jackie’s restaurant will be open until 7 p.m.
Wednesday, July 4
• WILLOW SPRINGS. A Fourth of July parade begins at 10 a.m., traveling down Main Street. A Missouri National Guard color guard will lead the way ahead of decorated bikes, floats and other vehicles that will be interspersed with residents dressed in historical costumes and other colorful entries. A “Spirit of 1776” event will be held after the parade at the Historic Star Theater.
A fireworks display will be presented at dark on Business 63 south. For more information, call Jane Bailey, 417-469-2588, or Wendell Bailey, 417-252-0230.
• ROCKBRIDGE RAINBOW TROUT RANCH. Fireworks start at dark on Wednesday, July 4. The annual celebration will include a variety of fun activities and vendors from 5 to 8:30 p.m. Games and activities such as corral pony rides, face painting and kids fishing will cost 50 cents to $2; a free petting zoo will also be offered. The restaurant will be open for dinner, and picnic-style concessions will be available for purchase outdoors by the grist mill. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs to sit by Spring Creek and watch the fireworks. In case of rain, the event will be held on Saturday, July 7.
Saturday, July 7
• PONTIAC. Mike MacPherson will perform music from 6 to 8 p.m. outdoors at Lake Bums Brewco off W Highway. The Firecrackers group will serve dinner to raise money for next year’s fireworks show in Pontiac Cove. The brewery will be open from 2 to 8 p.m.
• THORNFIELD. The Thornfield House of Prayer will host an evening of fun, food and fireworks beginning at 5 p.m. Saturday, July 7, in the adjoining park. Games and music are planned, and hotdogs will be served. Everything is free. The House of Prayer is 6 miles south of Wasola on Highway 95. For more information, call pastor Stan Collins at 417-989-0027.