East TN Celebrates 250 Years with Dazzling Fireworks

East Tennessee is set to commemorate America's 250th Anniversary with a series of dazzling fireworks displays and community celebrations on July 4th. Major events are planned in Knoxville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Oak Ridge, and other surrounding areas, offering residents a chance to celebrate together.

Knoxville's Festival on the 4th at World's Fair Park will feature music, food, and activities starting at 5 p.m., culminating in fireworks at 9:45 p.m. Pigeon Forge's Patriot Festival at Patriot Park will be a free, family-friendly event with live music and fireworks, including a performance by Carly Pearce. Gatlinburg will host a DJ dance party and a drone and fireworks show launched from the Space Needle.

Other notable celebrations include Clinton's Fourth of July at Lakefront Park with various entertainment options and fireworks. Lenoir City's Rockin' the Docks at Lenoir City Park will offer live music and fireworks. Kingston's Smokin' the Water festival at Kingston City Park promises a wide array of activities, food, and a fireworks display. Oak Ridge will host its annual Independence Day Concert and Fireworks Celebration in A.K. Bissell Park, with music preceding the fireworks. Townsend's celebration at the Highland Manor Inn will also include live music, food, and fireworks.

These events, many of which are free, highlight a significant community effort to celebrate the nation's milestone anniversary with a variety of attractions suitable for all ages. Information for each event can be found on their respective city websites.