Continuing a tradition that spans several generations, Independence Township Parks and Recreation is busy preparing the Festival of Fun, held at Clintonwood Park, for July 4.
‘We do a lot of work for this. This is an event our staff looks forward to and we take a lot of pride in doing it,? said Kelly Hyer, recreation programmer with Parks and Recreation. ?(The Festival of Fun) creates a sense of community and comradery.?
The Festival of Fun is the perfect companion to the Independence Day Parade through downtown Clarkston at 10 a.m. on July 4. The festivities kick off directlu after the parade at 11 a.m. and run until dusk.
Why dusk? So everyone can enjoy the 25-minute fireworks display put on by Zambelli Fireworks Internationale, the same company who light the sky over the Detroit River each year.
As late as June 22, Independence Township Parks and Recreation was still looking to nail down their final funding for the fireworks display. According to Hyer, the fund-raising goals were met for the most part and the show is a go. The estimated costs for the fireworks lay in between $10,000 and $11,500.
‘We couldn’t do this without the community support,? said Hyer.
The Festival of Fun’s expected turnout of 10-15,000 people could be a community in itself, and the Parks and Recreation staff has planned carefully to ensure all-day entertainment.
‘We’re ahead of schedule. We’re definitely ready,? said Hyer.
Over 100 booths will open at the Arts and Crafts Show held during the Festival of Fun, running from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Children’s activities such as assorted carnival games, inflatables, karaoke, body art and plaster molds, are set for the day.
Some events during the day are held at specific times, and those interested should take care not to miss the K-9 Frisbee Toss and Fetch contest at 1 p.m. or the horseshoe tournament at 2 p.m. Live music by an array of artists will be featured throughout the day.
The Independence Township Senior Center will hold an open house and spaghetti dinner as well.
Parking is $5 at Clintonwood Park or Everest Academy. A free shuttle is available to transport people from Clarkston High School to the Festival of Fun.