WILTON, Conn. The Fourth of July will be a blast in Wilton. The day kicks off early with a morning road race, and ends late with a "dazzling" half-hour fireworks display by Atlas Pyrovision Productions of New Hampshire, parks and recreation officials said.
All activities will be held at the Wilton High School Athletic Complex.
Wilton Parks and Recreation Director Stephen Pierce said the day begins at 8:30 a.m. with the annual 5K Freedom Run Road Race. He said the race fee for adults and children over 15 is $20; for children under 14, the cost is $10. A total of 150 to 200 runners are expected.
In the afternoon, there's a chance for Republicans and Democrats to take their political battles to the playing field in the annual "Democrats Versus Republicans Softball Game." Game time is 2:30 p.m.
"It doesn't matter which party you are affiliated with, this game is sure to get your patriotic spirits going," Pierce said.
A Fourth of July Live Music Dance will be held from 5:30 to 8 p.m. and will resume after the fireworks at 10 p.m.
The main event, the fireworks display, starts at 9:30 p.m. and draws 5,000 to 8,000 spectators, depending on the weather, Pierce said. "They [Atlas] put on a great show that lights up the sky," he said. "We always have a big crowd."
As in years past, the Parks and Recreation Department has been selling 4th of July Booster Parking Passes for designated areas near the fireworks. Vehicles without a booster pass will be charged $20.
Pierce said all money collected goes to offset the evening's $13,500 cost, and overall $28,000 for the day's events.
By becoming a 4th of July Booster, you receive a guaranteed parking pass and choice of lots adjacent to the concert and fireworks area. Spaces are limited and passes are issued on a first-come, first-served basis.
Pierce said the rain date is July 5. In the event of rain, call the parks and recreation program line after noon at 203-454-5188 for information.
Do you celebrate the Fourth of July at the high school athletic complex? Leave a comment below!
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