Spirit of Freedom Celebration

Residents throughout northwest Alabama and parts of southern Tennessee and northeast Mississippi find their way to Florence to celebrate Independence Day.

The celebration has become one of the most popular events of the year, attracting 30,000 or more each year. That doesn’t even count hundreds of vehicles that pull over on the side of nearby roads to witness a spectacular fireworks display just after nightfall.

The fireworks are launched from a barge anchored on the Tennessee River, near O’Neal Bridge. The display is set to patriotic music and lasts several minutes.

During the day, a large array of activities are held along the river banks in McFarland Park. A variety of musical entertainment is constant throughout the day. There’s plenty of food, vendors and activities for the children.