Last year, budget cuts included the Star Spangled Fourth, Garland's celebrated and award-winning July 4th extravaganza. Management at the Firewheel Town Center attempted to resurrect the event with fireworks and vendors but the plan did not start soon enough; various city departments felt there wasn't sufficient planning time.
 
Not to be caught in the same situation, Firewheel Town Center started the planning for next year's celebration in August or even earlier.
 
While the city's participation will be minimal, the Town Center is planning an event this year with entertainment, fireworks, and a carnival. It will be a family day. Coneflower Dr will be closed from the roundabout to the fountain area and both streets along the park will be closed. It will be a huge pedestrian area. A stage at the southern end will provide entertainment throughout the day.
 
The Four Seasons Market will be open along with Star Spangled Snacks, Radio Disnety, and stores will be having a holiday sale throughout the Town Center.
 
Over 500 American Flags will be on display and ReMAX will have a hot air balloon display.
 
The fireworks finale will begin at 9 pm.
 
The necessary permit has not yet been approved but one city official said it was 99% certain. Coordination for security, sanitation, traffic, and many other elements have to be considered and finalized. The "Star Spangled" brand belongs to the City of Garland and use of the name has also not been approved. We're still early in many of these details.
 
Currently, the Town Center plans to hold their event on Saturday, July 3rd, not the 4th.
 
I'm confident we will have fireworks here in Garland this Independence Day weekend. If it's on the Third instead of the Fourth, I say we call it Star Spangled Garland and shoot some fireworks!