2023 Independence Day Celebration in Downtown Paducah

Date of Release: 
June 28, 2023

Paducah’s July 4th Celebration sponsored by community partner, Independence Bank, will be Tuesday, July 4 on the riverfront in historic downtown Paducah.

Mayor George Bray said, “Independence Day is a special day in the history of our country and celebrates our freedom and liberties. I’m proud that Paducah is able to host one of the largest celebrations in the region with incredible food, two music performance areas, and a memorable fireworks display. I invite everyone to enjoy downtown Paducah not only on July 4th but for the entire holiday weekend. I want to especially thank sponsor Independence Bank for their support as well as the hard-working staff in Paducah’s Parks & Recreation Department for organizing a fun evening as we gather to honor America.”

Food vendors will start serving by 6 p.m. They will be in two locations: 1) on the river side of the floodwall near Kentucky Avenue and 2) in Schultz Park.

A new feature this year will be two entertainment areas. An acoustic performance area will be located near the boat dock with Candice Gunn at 6 p.m. and Crowfoot at 7:30 p.m.  On Wilson Stage, the main stage at the foot of Broadway, Wheelhouse Rousters take the stage at 6 p.m. and Hayley Payne will entertain the crowd at 7:45 p.m. 

The National Anthem will be performed by Hayley Payne at approximately 9:05 pm. The City has contracted with Tennessee-based Pyro Shows for a 20-minute display with the fireworks discharged from a barge provided by Pine Bluff Materials. The tug is provided by Ingram Barge Company. The City of Paducah appreciates the support of the tug and barge companies in making this event such a success. The creative show is choreographed to music with speakers placed along the riverfront near Wilson Stage.

Director of Parks and Recreation Amie Clark said, “The City of Paducah’s July 4th Celebration is a long-standing tradition that we look forward to hosting each year. We appreciate the partnerships and sponsorships with local businesses that allow us to continue providing this exciting event for the community.  Join us on Tuesday, July 4th along the riverfront for a celebration with music, food, and fireworks.”

If a thunderstorm is in the area at the scheduled time for the fireworks, the fireworks show will be delayed until the weather clears or rescheduled for July 5th. The Paducah Fire and Police Departments, McCracken County Sheriff’s Department, DES, and the U.S. Coast Guard will be at the event for additional safety.

Boaters should use the Ohio River Boat Launch at 6th and Burnett Streets since the floodwall openings at Broadway and Kentucky will close at 10 p.m. on July 3.  Schultz Park and the small parking area near the transient boat dock also will close at 10 p.m. on July 3.  

Parking will be available in the Farmers’ Market parking lot, Convention and Expo Center lots, City’s parking lot at 3rd and Kentucky, a small portion of the City Block lot, and street side in downtown along Broadway, Jefferson, and Kentucky Avenue, where appropriate. 

The rain date for the celebration, if needed, is Wednesday, July 5.

Dog Ordinance:  While pets are allowed at the July 4th Celebration, the City of Paducah’s dog ordinance mandates that the dog must be restrained by a leash or other lead that is no longer than three feet. 

July 4th Celebration with Performers

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