After last year’s event was modified thanks to COVID-19, Southlake's Stars and Stripes festival is back and better than ever. With the patriotic tradition going on for over 20 years now, Southlake residents are eager to get out of the house and watch the fireworks together in person. Here’s what you need to know before venturing out to Stars and Stripes this weekend.
1. The festival will be in Southlake Town Square.
While the city popped off fireworks at Bicentennial Park last year, this year’s Stars and Stripes festival will be making its triumphant return back to Southlake Town Square. According to the event page, families can enjoy the celebration at either Frank Edgar Cornish, IV Park, McPherson Park or Rustin Pavilion, with community events beginning at 6 p.m.
2. Each park will host its own smaller events.
Fireworks aren’t all families have to look forward to during the festival. Each park in Southlake Town Square is also hosting individual events leading up to the grand finale. Michael Hix and the Holla will perform at Frank Edgar Cornish, IV Park, while the Southlake Community and Swing Band will play at Rustin Pavilion. McPherson Park, meanwhile, will have a patriotic ceremony and countdown to the fireworks show.
3. There will be food and drinks.
While the concessions from last year’s celebration mostly involved whatever you had in your pantry or fridge, this year’s celebration sees all of the area’s best vendors returning to town square. BBQ Alley is back on Main Street, as well as the Dippin’ Dots and Kettle Corn in Family Park. And Grand Avenue features several vendors such as Kona Ice, Mi Cocina, Bondi Bowls, Sushi Dojo and So Icy.
4. The fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.
After everyone is done grabbing some food and listening to the live performances, the fireworks show will begin at 9:30 p.m. and last until around 9:45 p.m. Be sure to bring bug spray so you don’t get bitten late at night, and bring a blanket or folding chair to sit on so you can comfortably enjoy the fireworks. The Emerald City Band will finish the night with a concert at 10 p.m.
5. The fireworks will be livestreamed.
While it isn’t the most preferred method for watching the show, the fireworks will once again be livestreamed for those that are still hesitant about being in large crowds. The fireworks show will be streamed on both the city and Visit Southlake’s Facebook pages, so be sure to tune in if you aren’t able to come to Southlake Town Square.