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July 4th Celebration
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Independence Day in the Northeast Kingdom is full of festive activities. The day begins bright and early with the Harry Corrow Freedom Run and the ever-popular Derby Parade. After a brief lunch break, families are invited to Gardner Park for and old-fashioned celebration including live music, food, games and of course, FIREWORKS!
Harry Corrow Freedom Run
What better way to celebrate July 4th and our nation's Independence than with a trail run along the shores and woods of Lake Memphremagog! Celebrate FREEDOM FROM TYRANNY, freedom from asphalt, and freedom to choose your distance. Options include 5K, 10K, 10 mile or 1 mile run or walk. Race begins at 8:30AM at the intersection of Prouty Drive and the Bike Path. Register here with Kingdom Games. 
Derby Independence Day Parade
For 50 years the Derby Lions Club has hosted the local 4th of July parade boasting over 75 floats, live music, animals, equipment and vehicles of all shapes and sizes. The show begins at 10AM and travels from the Derby Elks Lodge down VT Route 105 to Nelson Farms. One of the largest processions in our area, the spectacle attracts hundreds of visitors each year and is free to any group who wants to promote their organization by marching, riding or driving in the parade. Set-up begins at 9AM. If you'd like to join the parade, contact Curt Brainard with the Lions Club at 802-766-5588. 
1th Annual Bed Races
The Bed Races are a hysterical, patriotic display in Gardner Park where teams of five push rolling beds down a 300 foot runway toward a finish line. Each team includes four "runners" and one "rider" over the age of 16. Beds, which range in style, consist of at least 3 wheels, a flat "bed-like" area, a mattress or cushion and a blanket. Race beds are powered by pushing, no motors or mechanics are permitted. After multiple heats and double elimination, one team will finish the tournament in first place, receive the coveted bed spring trophy and $500 in prize money. The race is limited to 8 teams per year and registrations are accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis. Deadline to register is June 28th, 2019. Download Registration Form. 
Live Music & Family Activities
The festive atmosphere and live music in Gardner Park is appealing for all ages. Each year, the event features a series of local, live music talent ranging from rock, jazz, folk and beyond. This year's schedule includes performances on our portable band wagon stage from local favorites. Between sets, enjoy food, games, playground and of course, the International Hula Hoop contest! Free and open to all kids, show up with your own hula hoop or borrow one of ours (while supplies last)! Qualifying rounds begin around 7:45PM. 
Traditional Fair Food & Vendors
It wouldn't be a celebration with out traditional carnival food and concessions! Food vendors in the park include cotton candy, fried dough, kettle corn, Hawaiian ice, and much more. If you're interested in joining the celebration as a vendor, contact JBooth@NewportRecreation.org before May 1st. Download Vendor Registration. 
Fireworks
As the night winds down and the sun sets, the grand finale of our celebration begins at 9:30 with a brilliant fireworks display over the bay on Lake Memphremagog. |
Age: All Ages
Date: July 4, 2019 Time: 4:00-10:00PM Location: Gardner Memorial Park, Newport Admit/Rate: Free Park Admission 8:30AM: Harry Corrow Freedom Run
10:00AM: Derby Parade 4:00PM: Gardner Park Opens 4:00PM: Band 1 (TBA) 5:00PM: Bed Races 7:00PM: Band 2 (TBA) 8:00PM: Hula Hoop Contest 8:30PM: Band 3 (TBA) 9:30PM: Fireworks PROUDLY SPONSORED BY:
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