Ever since my childhood I have loved the Fourth of July. From my earliest memories, my dad, a WWII veteran and my mom, a flag-waving product of those dark days when America saved the world, instilled in my brothers and me a great love for country. In the years since, that love has only grown.
This year, July Fourth promises to be something truly memorable. Our nation celebrates an extraordinary milestone – 250 years of American independence. And in Natchez, we plan to celebrate this milestone in true Natchez style!
Reflecting upon the courage of those who founded this great nation, and those who have fought from our earliest days to the present for freedom and equality, it is important that we celebrate the freedoms and opportunities that have come at so heavy a price. And in Natchez, we will be celebrating in a way that is fitting for one of America’s earliest and most historic cities.
I want to personally invite everyone—from lifelong residents to first-time visitors—to join us for the Natchez Big 250 Fest, a two-day celebration that showcases the very best of our community. This isn’t simply another Fourth of July weekend. It is an opportunity to come together as neighbors, families, veterans, and visitors to celebrate both our nation’s birthday and everything that makes Natchez such a remarkable place to live.
The weekend festivities kick off next Friday, as one of our community’s favorite traditions—Live at Five—joins forces with the City of Natchez, Visit Natchez, Miss-Lou Fireworks, and Natchez Parks & Recreation to present an unforgettable evening on the Bluff.
Beginning at 4:00 p.m. Friday, July 3, everyone is invited to gather at Memorial Park for our patriotic second-line parade which will begin at 4:30 going down Main Street to the Bandstand on The Bluff. Led by the energetic Epic Funk Brass Band, families are encouraged to decorate their golf carts, bicycles, tricycles, wagons, and strollers, wave their American flags, and become part of the celebration.
The parade’s Grand Marshal will be Captain Jack Kerwin, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday. Cpn’ Jack is a member of America’s Greatest Generation, having served our nation with distinction during World War II, and later again during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Few people have devoted a century of life to service as he has. I hope our community will line the streets to honor this remarkable American hero with the gratitude he so richly deserves.
After the parade, the celebration continues at the Bandstand with our Family Festival featuring children’s activities, bubbles, cornhole, yard games, and plenty of opportunities for families to
enjoy time together. The music begins at 5 p.m. with the Epic Funk Brass Band, followed by the incredible Mira.Got.Soul at 6 p.m.
The celebration continues on Saturday, July 4, with another full afternoon and evening of family fun along the Bluff. Beginning at 4:30 p.m., the Family Festival returns with children’s activities and fun for all ages. Live music begins at 5 p.m. with Cha Cha Boo, followed by The Remedy featuring Tema Larry at 6 p.m. The evening concludes with the spectacular Miss-Lou Fireworks Grand Finale at 9:30 p.m., illuminating the Mississippi River in a breathtaking tribute to 250 years of American freedom.
What makes this weekend so meaningful isn’t simply the schedule of events. It’s the people. It’s the volunteers who devote countless hours to making these celebrations possible. It’s the musicians who share their talents. It’s the first responders who work to keep everyone safe. It’s the local businesses, civic organizations, churches, sponsors, and community partners who continually invest in making Natchez a place where families create lasting memories.
Most importantly, it’s you. Every smiling face in the crowd, every child waving an American flag, every veteran receiving a heartfelt thank you, and every family gathered together reminds us that community is built one relationship at a time.
As your mayor, I can think of no better place to celebrate America’s 250th birthday than Natchez – the oldest city on the highest bluff of the mightiest river. So bring your lawn chairs. Bring your family. Bring your friends. Most of all, bring your pride in America and your love for Natchez. This Fourth of July weekend will be a historic opportunity to celebrate not only our nation’s remarkable past but also our city’s promising future.
I look forward to seeing you on the Bluff! Happy Independence Day, and may God continue to bless the United States of America and the City of Natchez. Because Natchez, America, Deserves More.
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