DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — The City of Dothan is inviting residents and visitors from across the Wiregrass to take part in a historic Independence Day celebration as the community marks America’s 250th birthday on Saturday, July 4.
The America 250 Downtown Celebration will be held from 2 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. throughout Foster Street and Saint Andrews Street in downtown Dothan. The event will feature live entertainment, historical exhibits, family activities, food vendors, shopping opportunities, and what organizers say will be Dothan’s first-ever drone light show.
Mayor Mark Saliba said the event will be one of the largest celebrations ever hosted in the city’s downtown district.
“This event represents the largest downtown celebration in our city’s history and serves as a fitting tribute to America’s 250th Birthday,” said 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 can enjoy performances by Solon Holt, Benny G, Dcovan Mathews, Gage Cowart and Noah Swanson. More than 30 food, retail and farm vendors are expected to participate.
Family-friendly attractions will include a Kids Fun Zone, Touch-A-Truck experience, free crafts, free face painting, a community-painted patriotic mural and a classic car show.
History enthusiasts will be able to explore exhibits from Landmark Park and visit the Presidential Exhibit Hall, which will feature a replica of the Oval Office and other presidential memorabilia.
Art in Public Places (APP) will present two community art projects led by ceramic artist Charlie Mabry, a Dothan native now based in New Orleans. Visitors will have the opportunity to paint individual tiles that will become part of a permanent public mosaic mural commemorating the nation’s 250th birthday and community unity.
The celebration will conclude with a 300-drone light show presented by the Mike Schmitz Family. Organizers say the display will feature patriotic imagery and storytelling in what will be the first drone show ever presented in Dothan.
To help accommodate expected crowds, additional parking will be available at Porter Square Mall, located at 890 W. Main St. Free shuttle service will transport attendees between the mall and the downtown event site throughout the day.
City officials encourage residents 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.
