AS THE July Fourth sun rises higher in the sky and the Southern humidity descends, squeals of delight and waterslide whooshes spill out of the fences surrounding the pool at the Shelbyville Recreation Center, located at H. V. Griffin Park. The band providing the evening’s entertainment draws a small crowd as they test the sound and set up their equipment. Food trucks arrive, and the aroma is so mouthwatering it even distracts the dogs there, letting their owners stretch their legs. There’s something everywhere you look. Preparations are underway for the evening’s celebration, and the anticipation is palpable.
It’s been a Shelbyville tradition since 1994, and the fireworks, entertainment, and activities are free to the public. The city of Shelbyville and Bedford County jointly fund the pyrotechnics, which are more explosive and colorful each year. The event starts at 5 p.m., and the gates close at 8:30 p.m. for fireworks beginning at 9 p.m. Pack a picnic blanket or your lawn chairs, or plan to enjoy the display from the back of your truck.
Jennifer Swann, program coordinator at Shelbyville Parks and Recreation, said, “Everyone is welcome! The activities, music, and fireworks are all free to the community because we want people to be able to bring their families and enjoy themselves without worrying about having to spend a lot of money.”
It’s a time to celebrate our freedom and reflect upon those who make it possible.
“To me, it means that I have certain rights to be free to pursue any creative outlet that lets me be me without the threat of constraint or censorship by another person if I am not hurting someone else by my actions. Every one of us has something unique to offer this world, and when a community comes together, great things can be accomplished when given a voice,” Swann responded, highlighting what freedom means to her.
The first voice of the evening you’ll hear belongs to Gary Haile. For over 10 years, he’s performed “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Other voices of the evening belong to members of the band ECHO, who take the stage sponsored by Nearest Green Distillery. Explore the booths and vendors scattered throughout the grounds, and don’t miss this year’s new addition: a rock-climbing wall, open from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The Fourth of July celebration at the park continually evolves and grows with the community. It’s a team effort orchestrated by Shelbyville Parks and Recreation, local organizations, and emergency responders. As seamless as the event appears, lots of planning precedes it.
“The greatest challenge is getting all the agencies, volunteers, and staff on the same page. It takes a lot of phone calls, meetings, and checklists to make it all come together,” Swann explained. “There are so many moving parts, but keeping good timelines, communication, records, and checking in with people to remind them of their responsibilities is most important. It’s a blessing to know that I have great co-workers and a team to help me with all of it. I couldn’t do it without them!”
And the event wouldn’t be the same without the contributions of local businesses and organizations.
“The Lions Club donates to the inflatables each year, which helps us keep costs down so activities remain free. Businesses are welcome to donate their time as volunteers or give monetarily to the event. We proudly display signs for sponsorships that have been donated. Nearest Green Distillery is a huge supporter of this event and has brought a bigger element to the event with the big stage that creates a more festival-like feel,” said Swann.
Bedford County EMS, EMA, the Bedford County Sheriff’s Department, the Shelbyville Fire Department, and the Shelbyville Police Department ensure safety at the event.
Swann complimented the efforts, stating, “They have partnered with our department and have disaster preparedness plans in place. Each organization is on premises during the event, and everyone has access to radio communication between departments. The Police Department does a phenomenal job controlling traffic at all points in and out of the park and foot patrol officers throughout the park.”
Swann and her team will monitor the need for a larger space to accommodate the event as the community grows. They welcome suggestions from community partners on new places and opportunities to expand the celebration experience.
“We’re always willing to hear from the community with any new ideas they would like to see happen through parks and recreation,” Swann encouraged.
When the sun sets on another Fourth of July celebration at H. V. Griffin Park, the echoes of laughter and the sparkle of fireworks remind us of the bonds that unite us. Here’s to the traditions that bring us together and the freedom that allows us to thrive. GN
