The City of Natchez is inviting residents and visitors to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with two days of family-friendly entertainment, live music, a community parade and a fireworks show during the BIG 250 FEST on July 3-4. The event is free and open to the public and will take place at the Bandstand on the Bluff in downtown Natchez.
City officials have partnered with Live@Five, Miss-Lou Fireworks, Natchez Parks & Recreation and Visit Natchez to present what organizers describe as a community-wide patriotic celebration featuring activities for all ages.
The festivities begin Friday, July 3, with a second line-style parade led by Grand Marshal Capt. Jack Kerwin, a local veteran who served during World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. The parade will be accompanied by the Epic Funk Brass Band and is scheduled to start at 4:30 p.m., with participants gathering at Memorial Park beginning at 4 p.m. Veterans, active military personnel, VFW members, American Legion members, JROTC participants and families are encouraged to take part.
Following the parade, a family festival will run from 4:30 p.m. until dark, offering a variety of activities including a petting zoo, bounce house, bubbles, hula hoops, cornhole, disc golf and yard games provided through Natchez Parks & Recreation.
Live entertainment on Friday will feature the Epic Funk Brass Band at 5:10 p.m., followed by Mira.Got.Soul at 6 p.m.
The celebration continues Saturday, July 4, with another evening of family activities and live music. Cha Cha Boo will take the stage at 5 p.m., followed by The Remedy featuring Tema Larry at 7 p.m. The family festival will once again run from 4:30 p.m. until dark.
The weekend will conclude with a fireworks finale at 9 p.m. Saturday. The display, presented by Miss-Lou Fireworks, will be accompanied by patriotic music provided by Larry Boland.
Organizers said free water will be available courtesy of Coca-Cola, while large fans and cooling stations provided by the Natchez Convention Center will help attendees stay comfortable during the festivities. Vendors and children’s activities will be located near the Natchez Grand.
The BIG 250 FEST is open to the public, and organizers encourage attendees to bring lawn chairs, blankets, coolers, family and friends for a weekend of celebration overlooking the Mississippi River.
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