Leesburg officials were excited to announce the return of the city’s July 4th celebration after over a year of no events due to the recent coronavirus pandemic.
The city’s annual July 4th celebration, which boasts one of the most spectacular fireworks shows in the area, was cancelled in 2020 as the nation implemented safety measures to prevent the further spread of COVID-19.
Now, in the wake of the pandemic as businesses begin re-opening and the economy settles back into the “business as usual” routine, city officials are excited to bring back the event with a few changes.
“We are excited for the return of this great Leesburg Partnership event,” said City Manager Al
Minner. “This year’s celebration is sure to be better than ever and I hope everyone can come out and enjoy
the festivities.”
Every year the city hosts its Independence Day event at Venetian Gardens with food trucks and vendors and finishes it off with a spectacular over-the-water fireworks display. This year the city’s July 4th celebration will include multiple events for more family fun.
Adding to the food trucks and vendors, this year’s event will also include a baseball game, water ski show, and live music, as well as a free Kid’s Play Zone which includes free face painting, balloon artist, photo booth, and inflatables for the children to enjoy.
Residents can start the day off early at the Leesburg Splash Pad in Rogers Park from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for only $2 per person.
After spending an day splashing around, families can head over to the Pat Thomas Stadium at 5 p.m. to see the Florida Collegiate Summer League’s two-time champions, The Leesburg Lightning, take on the Winter Garden Squeeze.
By 6 p.m. the Free Kids’ Play Zone as well as vendors, and food trucks will be available for residents to enjoy in Ski Beach.
Also at Ski Beach, families can watch a stunning water ski show which begins at 7:30 p.m. followed by the fireworks display choreographed to music at 9 p.m.
Due to the increase in size of the event, officials warned that parking will not be available at Ski Beach this year and attendees are urged to park north of Dixie Avenue including at the ballfield located at the corner of Canal and Dixie as well as the parking lot by the shuffleboard courts located on 2nd Street and the LRMC Medical Plaza on the south side of Dixie.
Pedestrians attending the event that need to cross Dixie Avenue, are urged to cross only at designated crosswalks located at the intersections of Canal Street and 9th Street. Crossing Guards will be stationed at both intersections to help pedestrians cross safely.