Freedom Fest – Gadsden’s 250th Celebration

This Independence Day, the City of Gadsden is holding Freedom Fest, a huge celebration with hot air balloon rides, glow balloons for photos, the biggest fireworks show in the Southeast, live music and more.

“This year is a celebration of our country’s 250th anniversary, and we’re doing our part to recognize it in style,” said Gadsden Mayor Craig Ford. “This year, we’re bringing in hot air balloons along with all the great things people have come to expect from our Fourth of July events: live music, food trucks, free fun for the whole family and a fantastic fireworks show from Memorial Bridge!”

Freedom Fest will be held across two days on July 3 and 4, 2026.

The hot air balloon rides will be held at Moragne Park, while glow balloons for photos will take place along Highway 411. Riverside Park will feature a Kids’ Zone.

Attendees can enjoy music on the banks of the Coosa River throughout the event, culminating in the Winsouth Credit Union concert series presenting Black Jacket Symphony performing yacht rock.

Gadsden’s signature fireworks show from Memorial Bridge on Broad St. will take place at 9:30 p.m. on July 4.

Here is a schedule of events:

July 3

Hot Air Balloons

3 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Tethered Rides are from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
$20 per person per ride
Up to six people in the basket
5-minute rides
Tethered Ride Passes must be bought online at www.cityofgadsden.com/tickets

Music Lineup:

4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. - Logan Bonds

5:15 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. - Savannah J

6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. - Mia Matthews and Jake Steed

7:45 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. - Holmes St. Sessions

First Friday will be continuing as planned on Broad St.

July 4

Hot Air Balloons

3 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Details as previously listed

Music Lineup:

4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. - Jesselyn James

5:15 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. - Irby & Player

7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. - Black Jacket Symphony

Fireworks Show:

9:30 p.m. – Fireworks are launched from Memorial Bridge on Broad St.