In addition to a traditional fireworks display that will replace drones, the city of Ocala has scheduled two local entertainers to perform at this year’s Patriotic Skies Fourth of July event.
The event will take place on Friday, July 4, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Tuscawilla Park (800 NE Sanchez Ave).
Festivities will open with a performance by Emma Forgette, an Ocala-area country artist who released her debut album last year.
The show will be headlined by Bryce Mauldin, another country artists who is originally from Webster in Sumter County. Mauldin has amassed millions of streams for his original music and nearly a million followers across his social media accounts.
In addition to the music acts, the event will feature family-friendly activities, vendors, and multiple local food trucks, including Kona Ice and Junkie Frieds, among others.
As it did last year, the city will offer a free shuttle service between 5 p.m. and 11 p.m. from several locations across the city: the Marion Technical Institute (1614 SE Fort King Street), E.D. Croskey Recreation Center (1510 NW Fourth Street), Ocala City Hall (110 SE Watula Avenue), and Marion County Parking Facility (346 NW Second Street).
According to the city, the fireworks will start at 9:30 p.m. and should last approximately 15 minutes. In addition to the satellite parking lots, there will also be limited parking available at the Ocala Skate Park.
Two main roadways will be closed for the event: Sanchez Avenue from NE 4th Street to NE 9th Street, and Watula Avemnue between NE 5th Street and NE 9th Street.
The city says coolers are allowed and that soft drinks will be available for purchase in addition to the food trucks. Chairs will not be provided, so guests are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets.
Dogs are allowed at the event, but they must be leashed and picked up after, according to the city.