Southwest City is gearing up to host the area's 50th annual Third of July Celebration at Blankenship Park on Main Street.
The public is invited to join in the evening festivities, starting at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 3, with an old-fashioned BBQ chicken dinner, grilled and served by the Southwest City Commercial Club. Plates will include a half-chicken, two side orders and bread for $6.
Proceeds will support yearly events sponsored by the club.
Southwest City's Summer Ball Program will have additional food and refreshments at the park's concession stand, including hamburgers, hot dogs and drinks. Proceeds support the Summer Ball Program.
At 6:30 p.m. five tons of free watermelon will be available to guests, courtesy of The Cornerstone Bank. Multiple serving stations will be set up throughout the park so that attendees can snag and salt their melon, then sit and enjoy the live music.
The Master's Voice will begin the on-stage entertainment at 6:30 p.m. The five-piece Southern gospel band has been bringing an evangelistic approach to singing and performing for more than two decades. The group strives to minister the message of Jesus through music.
Family gospel trio, The Gould's, will be returning to the Blankenship stage as well. The band is comprised of father, Tim Gould, and his daughters, Kelsey and Christa. The family hails from Joplin and is known for their tight harmony, smooth vocals and uplifting spirit.
The city's renowned fireworks extravaganza will begin at dusk. Southwest City has one of the most-well-attended displays in the county.
Don't forget to bring your lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the show.
City officials remind the public that no personal fireworks or unapproved vendors are allowed in the park during the day of the event. No alcoholic beverages are allowed on the premises.
Community on 06/28/2018