Residents will have a new way to celebrate Independence Day this summer as the Town of Hennessey prepares for its first annual Freedom Fest on Thursday, July 2.
The community event will feature a parade, family activities, games, vendors, food, inflatables, contests, and entertainment at the Hennessey High School football practice field.
Activities will begin at 6 p.m., with a community parade scheduled to line up at 7 p.m. at the Christian Church parking lot. The parade will begin at 7:30 p.m. and travel through town before ending near the Freedom Fest activities.
Organizers have planned a variety of attractions for families and children throughout the evening. Several inflatable water slides and activities will be available, along with face painting, balloon animals, cornhole, horseshoes, tug-of-war, sack races, bubble activities, water games, and a special children’s play area designed for younger participants.
A hot dog eating contest is also planned and will feature three age divisions. The Mini Mustard division will be open to younger children, the Relish Rookies division will include older youth and teenagers, and the Grill Masters division will be open to adults.
In addition to the activities, local organizations and businesses will be participating throughout the event. The Hennessey Police Department, Kingfisher County Sheriff’s Office, Masonic Lodge, Lions Club, and numerous community volunteers are helping make the celebration possible.
The Masonic Lodge has sponsored the return of clown entertainment, including balloon animals and appearances throughout the evening. The Kingfisher County Sheriff’s Office will bring its DUI obstacle course, while the fire department has volunteered to assist with water activities.
Several local vendors will also be on hand offering merchandise, refreshments, and treats. Planned vendors include Hennessey Nutrition, Sparky’s, Black Diamond, jewelry vendors, snow cones, and other local businesses.
Free hot dogs, bottled water, and watermelon will be available during the event while supplies last, thanks to donations and community support.
A selfie wall contest is also planned, giving attendees an opportunity to submit photos taken during the event for a chance to win prizes donated by local businesses.
Organizers are still seeking volunteers, parade entries, and additional participants. Businesses, organizations, churches, clubs, and individuals interested in entering the parade, sponsoring an activity, operating a booth, or volunteering during the event are encouraged to get involved.
According to organizers, Freedom Fest was created to provide an affordable, family-friendly celebration while bringing residents together ahead of the Independence Day holiday.
Additional event information, parade registration details, and volunteer opportunities will be announced as plans are finalized.
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