Fourth of July fireworks, events planned

An inflatable eagle beckons fireworks shoppers to the McCook Optimists stand, one of several groups and individuals offering pyrotechnics this year.

Bruce Crosby/McCook Gazette

McCOOK, Neb. -- Coronavirus precautions have scaled back many traditional Independence Day activities, but there are still a number of ways to celebrate the Fourth.

The Haigler Community Foundation announced cancelation of activities at the Cornerstone Center for Community Service, and an announcement will be made later concerning the Summer Music Festival in the Park scheduled for Aug. 9.

However, McCook Christian Church plans the second annual Southwest Nebraska Freedom Festival Thursday, July 2, at the Red Willow County Fairgrounds. Food vendors will begin serving at 6:30 p.m., and Luke Mills and Justin Kleuver of Kearney will provide live music throughout the evening, with fireworks at dark. The event honors active military and veterans, law enforcement and first responders.

Indianola will have fireworks Friday, July 3 at the baseball field, and the Arapahoe Prairie Pioneer Days parade will by Saturday, July 4, and 10:30 a.m., with residents invited to view the parade from their own lawns. Fireworks will be displayed at dusk.

Fireworks are planned for Culbertson at dusk Saturday, July 4 in Culbertson.

Personal fireworks are now for sale between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. through July 4. Revelers can light fireworks legally through July 3 from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., July 4 from 8 a.m. to 11:59 p.m., and July 5 from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.