Fireworks over the Susquehanna River. File photo.
The popping of fireworks and banging of drums will ring out over Harrisburg starting next week.
The city on Friday announced its annual July 4th Food Truck Festival, which will bring back fireworks after a year without, and the July Music Series at Reservoir Park.
“One of the greatest things about Harrisburg in the summer is that it gives us an opportunity to come together as a community,” said Mayor Wanda Williams.
The festival will take place on Saturday, July 4 in Riverfront Park from 1 to 9 p.m. and feature over 40 food trucks, live music, a wine/beer garden, petting zoo and free family activities. The evening will conclude with a 15-minute fireworks show, starting at 9:15 p.m., to celebrate the United States’ 250th birthday.
“The July 4th Food Truck Festival has become a tradition that residents look forward to each year,” Williams said. “It showcases local food vendors, supports small businesses and gives veterans a wonderful way to celebrate Independence day right here in the Pennsylvania capital city.”
Williams noted that any violence or illegal activity at the festival will not be tolerated and that the city will have a heavy police presence on site all day. Two years ago, the fireworks show was cut short due to police apprehending youth with firearms, which is why no fireworks happened last year.
Metered street parking is free for the holiday, parking on City Island, is $5, and the Market Square Garage, courtesy of Park Harrisburg, is offering $10 parking from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Also starting on July 4, the July Music Series will kick off at the bandshell in Reservoir Park, presented by the city and Pop’s House.
Throughout the month, jazz, gospel, AfroSoul and local youth performers will take the stage. All shows are free to attend and families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets and coolers. Food trucks and vendors will be on site.
“Reservoir Park will be filled with wonderful performances that celebrate a wide variety or musical talents, cultures, and artistic traditions,” Williams said.
The music series schedule is as follows:
- July 4—Scarlet Rose, Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra, Dred Scott, 6:30 to 9 p.m.
- July 5—Mayor Williams’ Rising Star Youth Showcase, 6:30 to 9 p.m.
- July 12—Gospel Night with Zak Williams and 1/Akord and HBA-Psalm A 34 The Sound of Praise, 6:30 to 9 p.m.
- July 18—Jazz Under the Stars Festival with Pieces of a Dream, JJ Sansaverino & Art Sherrod Jr. and Wes Watkins & Jon Williams, 5 to 10 p.m.
- July 25—AfroSoul Latino Festival with The Crank Crusaders featuring Raheem DeVaughn Yahzarah & Bootsy Vegas, The Singer’s Lounge, Hector Rosado & Orq Hache and Dwennimen African Dance Community and special guests, 5 to 10 p.m.
- Sept. 11—Pop’s House pre-jazz fest mixer, Pink Palish and DJ Godfather, 8 p.m. to 12 a.m.
For more information about the July 4th Food Truck Festival, visit Harrisburg’s website. For more information about the July Music Series, visit Explore HBG’s website.
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