SE Valley Times

The 15th Annual Arizona Celebration of Freedom Presented by AT&T, scheduled for Thursday, July 4, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., is set to be a significant Independence Day event in the state. Here are ten highlights of the festival:

1. The fireworks show will begin at 9:30 p.m., following the Salute to America program at 9:15 p.m.

2. An outdoor mist-chilled food court will feature the Primetime Grill semi-truck equipped with grills, smokers, and ovens.

3. The Mesa Convention Center will host the Hall of U.S. Flags and the Fallen Soldiers Memorial. Outside, there will be a Patriotic Military Showcase with military vehicles on display.

4. "Introduction to Lasers" shows inside the air-conditioned Mesa Convention Center will feature laser displays, photos, and music.

5. The Great All-American Freedom Farm will showcase vintage and new tractors and other equipment related to Arizona’s farm heritage.

6. BMX stunt shows featuring stunts and jumps will conclude with a grand finale.

7. Revolutionary War reenactments by We Make History will depict the 13 Colonies breaking free from British rule.

8. Beer stands, games, photo opportunities with military vehicle displays, and more beer stands will be available throughout the event.

9. A free water bar hosted by Mesa Water Resources encourages attendees to stay hydrated; visitors should bring their own bottles for refills.

10. Cool Zones with misting trailers and tents, inflatable waterslides in the Splash Zone, and air-conditioned patriotic displays inside the Mesa Convention Center aim to help attendees beat the heat.

The Arizona Celebration of Freedom Presented by AT&T is free to attend and celebrates American freedom extensively.

The event location includes Mesa Amphitheatre and Mesa Convention Center at 263 N. Center St., as well as areas along Center Street between First Street and University Drive. More information can be found at azcelebrationoffreedom.com.

Sponsors for this year's event include City of Mesa; Mesa Convention Center; Mesa Amphitheatre; Sertoma Club; Mesa Recycles; Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport; Willmeng Construction; Prensa Arizona; VCA Animal Hospitals; 95.5 The Mountain; Celerion, Nesbitt, Sundt; Downtown Mesa Association; Mesa Chamber of Commerce; Visit Mesa; Niagara Cares; Delta Hotels; United Food Bank and Renewal by Andersen.