Charles City Area Chamber of Commerce news release

Charles City’s traditional Fourth of July Celebration is getting a big new upgrade, with an emphasis on “big” and new!”

A big name band will be performing on July 3rd and on a bigger stage. The Dweebs, who call themselves “America’s Favorite Party Band,” will be bringing their high-energy, colorful, interactive and unique act to Charles City. Expect crazy stage antics and lots of audience participation as The Dweebs rock the night with music from the 60s on up through today. This well-established band performs all over the country and has developed a following with its mix of entertainment, fun and music.

The Dweebs will also be performing on a bigger stage than the usual portable band shell at the park. Expect more lights, sound and effects with the special staging at the corner of North Jackson and Kelly streets, more akin to what was featured at RAGBRAI last summer.

“The Fourth of July Celebration Committee is looking at more of a production and all the fun that adds to our event,” said Events Coordinator Emily Garden. “They are looking to go bigger and better!”

Warming things up street dance-style that afternoon in Central Park will be DJ Jacob Vold in a new twist to the Uncle Same Jam, along with another new offering with a BMX stunt show. A professional BMX team will be wowing the crowd that afternoon and again the evening of the 3rd in a can’t miss thrill show.

As the evening progresses, grillers will set up for the first annual Simply Essentials Wing Ding. Wings will be available for purchase with Fourth of July Chips (sponsored by Fareway) and a Wing Ding champion crowned.

July 3rd will also feature the traditional Kids Day activities that morning in and around Central Park, with food and entertainment afterwards along with inflatable rides throughout the day.

The fun will continue on July 4th with the annual Firecracker Five 5K and 5 Mile races at 7:30 a.m., followed by the big Independence Day Parade later that morning. Stay downtown in Central Park afterwards for the food and fun as local band favorite Endless Summer will perform, along with more from the BMX stunt team, a beer garden, food vendors and more!

Capping off the celebration will be a patriotic concert that night by the Charles City Municipal Band, as well as the fireworks show over the Cedar River after dark.

Keep watching for more information regarding the Fourth of July Celebration in Charles City, look for updates on Facebook, call (641) 228-4234 or visit the Charles City Area Chamber of Commerce website at www.charlescitychamber.com.