DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — The City of Dothan is inviting residents and visitors from across the Wiregrass to take part in a historic community celebration on Saturday, July 4, as downtown Dothan becomes the center of festivities honoring America’s 250th birthday.
According to the City of Dothan, the America 250 Downtown Celebration will take place from 2 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. throughout Foster Street and Saint Andrews Street. The event will feature live entertainment, historical exhibits, family-friendly activities, food, shopping and what organizers describe as a one-of-a-kind drone light show unlike anything previously seen in Dothan.
“This event represents the largest downtown celebration in our city’s history and serves as a fitting tribute to America’s 250th Birthday,” said Mayor Mark Saliba. “For 250 years, America has been defined by courage, innovation, and the enduring spirit of its people. This celebration is an opportunity for our community to come together, honor our nation’s history, and celebrate the values that continue to unite us. We are proud to host an event of this magnitude in Downtown Dothan and create a memorable experience for families across the Wiregrass.”
Throughout the day, attendees will be able to enjoy live performances from Solon Holt, Benny G, Dcovan Mathews, Gage Cowart and Noah Swanson.
Organizers say the celebration will also feature more than 30 food, retail and farm vendors. Additional attractions include a Kids Fun Zone, a Touch-A-Truck experience, free crafts, free face painting, a community-painted patriotic mural and a classic car show.
History enthusiasts will have the opportunity to explore exhibits from Landmark Park and visit the Presidential Exhibit Hall. The exhibit hall will feature a replica of the Oval Office and other presidential memorabilia, offering visitors a unique glimpse into American history.
The evening will conclude with what city officials describe as the signature attraction of the event — a 300-drone light show presented by the Mike Schmitz Family. According to the release, it will be the first drone show ever presented in Dothan.
City officials say the aerial display will illuminate the downtown sky with patriotic imagery and storytelling as a tribute to America’s 250th anniversary.
To accommodate the large crowds expected, additional parking will be available at Porter Square Mall, located at 890 W. Main St. Free shuttle service will transport guests between the mall and the downtown event site throughout the celebration.
“The City of Dothan encourages attendees to bring the entire family and spend the day enjoying food, music, history, entertainment, and community pride as Dothan joins communities across the nation in commemorating America 250,” the release states.
The city also recognized several sponsors helping make the event possible, including The Mike Schmitz Family, D.R. Horton, Wiregrass Wealth Management, Dothan Regional Airport, Energy Southeast, Durden Outdoors, Visit Dothan, Landmark Park, Downtown Dothan, Eye Center South, AAA Cooper Transportation, Aero-One Aviation, Hudson Office Supply, SmartBank and Brightspeed Fiber.
Additional information about the celebration is available through the City of Dothan.
