As the summer sun shines upon the vibrant city of Denton, Texas, preparations are underway for a remarkable Independence Day celebration. This year, Denton is set to host a two-day extravaganza, showcasing a variety of exhilarating events that will culminate in a spectacular drone show. The celebration aims to commemorate the historic moment when the Continental Congress declared independence from Great Britain. Residents and visitors alike can look forward to joining in the festivities on July 1 and July 3, immersing themselves in the spirit of patriotism and community.
The festivities will commence on Saturday, July 1, with the highly anticipated Liberty Fun Run and the beloved Yankee Doodle Parade. Starting bright and early at 7:30 a.m., participants can take part in the Liberty Run, which includes a 5k race and a 1-mile walk. The event promises friendly competition and an invigorating celebration of freedom. Completing the 1-mile walk guarantees a commemorative race medal, while the top three finishers in the 5k race will be awarded 1st – 3rd place medals.
Following the Liberty Run, the streets of downtown Denton will come alive with vibrant colors of red, white, and blue during the Yankee Doodle Parade. Residents and visitors are encouraged to line the parade route, taking their place amongst the patriotic crowd. The parade will wind its way through the historic downtown square, beginning near the Wells Fargo building at Austin St. and Hickory St., continuing around the square, and concluding at the Denton Civic Center.
On Monday, July 3, Denton Square will transform into a hub of excitement and patriotic jubilation as the July Jubilee takes center stage. From 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., attendees of all ages can indulge in a myriad of family-friendly activities. The July Jubilee will feature live music, delicious treats from local vendors, thrilling inflatables, games, rock climbing walls, and delightful face painting opportunities. Additionally, a hot dog eating contest will add a touch of delicious competition to the festivities.
The highlight of the July Jubilee will be the much-anticipated drone show, presented by the Denton Noon Kiwanis. As the sun sets and darkness blankets Denton, the night sky will become a canvas of awe-inspiring brilliance. Synchronized drones will take flight, showcasing an extraordinary display of choreographed movements and radiant lights. The drone show, a fusion of technology and artistry, will captivate audiences at 9:30 p.m. and again at 10:30 p.m., promising to leave spectators spellbound by its beauty and innovation.
The City of Denton would like to remind residents and visitors that the use of fireworks within city limits is prohibited. Violation of this ordinance could lead to a fine of up to $2,000. As we gather to celebrate our nation’s freedom, we must also prioritize safety and respect for our community. If you witness any illegal firework activity, please report it to the non-emergency dispatch at 940-349-8181. Please refrain from calling 911 to report fireworks, as this line should be reserved for immediate and critical emergencies.
Notably, the City of Denton has chosen to forgo the traditional fireworks show this year in favor of the breathtaking drone spectacle. In collaboration with the city, the Denton Noon Kiwanis have dedicated their efforts to creating an unforgettable experience that showcases the technological advancements of our time. The drone show will be a free event, accessible to all who gather at the historic Denton Square to witness this remarkable celebration of independence.
As Denton residents and visitors eagerly anticipate the upcoming Independence Day festivities, the city prepares to welcome everyone to an extraordinary celebration. With the Liberty Run, Yankee Doodle Parade, July Jubilee, and the mesmerizing drone show, Denton is poised to offer an unforgettable experience that embodies the spirit of unity, patriotism, and innovation. Residents and visitors are invited to partake in the festivities on July 1 and July 3 as Denton shines brightly and commemorates the cherished values that make this nation great.
Saturday, July 1, 2023
Liberty Run
- 6:30 a.m. – Check-In
- 7:30 a.m. – Race Begins
Yankee Doodle Parade
- 7:30 a.m. – Parade Check-in/Staging begins – Wells Fargo Parking Lot
- 8:15 – 8:45 a.m. – Parade Entries Judged
- 9 a.m. – Parade begins
Monday, July 3, 2023
July Jubilee
- 6 p.m. – Festival begins
- 7 p.m. – Hot Dog Eating Contest
- 8 p.m. – Live Music: Redline Drift
- 9 p.m. – Live Music: Brave Combo
- 9:30 p.m. – Drone Show sponsored by Denton Noon Kiwanis
- 10 p.m. – Live Music: Brave Combo
- 10:30 p.m. – Second Drone Show sponsored by Denton Noon Kiwanis
Road Closures and Traffic Updates
On Saturday, July 1, 2023, from 4 a.m. until noon, road closures will impact traffic around the downtown square and TWU campus for the Yankee Doodle Parade and Liberty Run.
On Monday, July 3, 2023, from 6 a.m. until 11 p.m., road closures will impact traffic around the downtown square for the Denton Jubilee and Kiwanis drone show.
