Billings' church gives FREE family FUN & Fireworks on July 4th

Celebrate Freedom Fireworks Festival, is a gift to the community from Harvest Church with "no strings attached and no agenda" says Celebrate Freedom Coordinator, Katrina Hickle. "We just want a fun environment for families to enjoy the 4th of July together, for little to no cost to them."

Just announced: The Center Stage line up has now been confirmed for Celebrate Freedom, Billings’ only public fireworks show and festival.

• Opening at 5 pm is Day Old Donuts, a local cover band that came together especially for this event.
• Next, at 6:30 pm, gather around the stage for Magician Kameron Messmer, who specializes in family-friendly magic shows.
• Headlining the event at 8 pm is John Roberts y Pan Blanco, pumping out a groovy blend of Funk, African and Latin dance beats that are sure to get your hips moving. With a fun vibe and impressive instrumental solos, Billings is in for a treat.

It all starts at 5 pm at Castlerock Park. Before the professional choreographed fireworks show, Harvest Church’s army of volunteers will serve up five hours of free activities and affordable food ($3 grill meal or a variety of 50-cent concessions).

“Our mission is to provide a family-friendly, affordable and fresh experience for every participant,” said Celebrate Freedom Coordinator Katrina Hickle. The event has been a success for 16 years, and her goal this year has been to find new and engaging activities for all ages.

“We are beyond excited to now have a free laser tag course available, donated by Bad Bear Laser Tag.” Hickle said. “We expect this will draw teenagers up through young adults to come hang out with us before fireworks begin at dark.” Another new addition that’s fun for all ages: a free photo booth by Northwest DJ Company.

Hickle recommends bringing a lawn chair or blanket and planning to spend the whole evening at Castlerock Park. There will be face painting, balloons, temporary tattoos, airbrush skin art, lawn games, a rock wall, a preschool play area, and 15 inflatable bouncy houses – all free. The food tents will serve fresh lemonade, popcorn, ice cream, sno-cones, floats, burgers, brats, hot dogs and more.

At least 15,000 people are expected this year, based on past attendance. For guests’ safety, city police and first responders will be at Castlerock Park for the duration of the event.

At a glance:

What: Celebrate Freedom

When: July 4th, 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Where: Castlerock Park on W. Wicks Lane in the Heights

Cost: Admission, activities and water are free. Meals: $3 and under. Snacks and drinks: 50 cents. Inexpensive souvenirs and glow gear. Cash only.

What to bring: Lawn chairs, sunscreen, bug spray, blankets

What not to bring: Personal fireworks and alcohol and pets are not allowed

Amenities: Portable restrooms, first aid, ATM, free parking

More info: celebratefreedombillings.com