Celebration Station on the 4th of July

Depending on how the weather will be, here in Allen we celebrate Independence Day either the weekend before or after the 4^th of July if it is not actually on the weekend. People start showing up right after work. So anywhere from 5:00 to 6:00 pm the crowd starts pouring in with or without their own food, definitely with blankets or chairs.

Celebration Station is a large park on the east side of Allen, Texas, on the north side of Main Street. The later you show up, you will more than likely not get close enough to the band stand.

There are vendors there selling their foods and drinks, and you will find some 4^th of July memorabilia to purchase and take home for next year. They usually have a bounce castle for the small kids to play in, and if one wants to they can wonder off further to play some sports until the fireworks go off.

As the music begins, a local DJ will start off as the MC for the evening's plans. You will be given an overview of the bands that will be playing. There may be a surprise in store for you as they don't always mention everyone that will be on stage. This makes each year fun to go to Celebration Station for the 4^th of July.

During the course of the early groups that play, freebies of many kinds are thrown out into the crowd, which are really meant for the kids. Some adults still don't get this, but those that do are very gracious. There have been known to be some freebies for the adults as well.

Indian fry bread, strawberry short cakes, and fresh lemonade are just a few samples of the foods and drinks you will find for sale at the Independence celebration. I prefer the root beer float and the Indian fry bread.

You will see many families bring their dogs to this event at Celebration Station. Some of them will chase after the Frisbees thrown for them.

When all has come towards the end, the fireworks begin. Recorded Patriotic songs are played in the background as you ooh and ah at all the fireworks shooting up high into the sky. The end of the show is breathtaking as the sky lights up nearly to daylight with all of sorts of fireworks going off in the air.

Should you have the opportunity to join us here in Allen, Texas, you may want to bring along a camera or camcorder. Show others what you were a part of this year.