Inside Kirkwood’s Spectacular, Jam-Packed Fourth of July

The smell of fresh fair food, kids laughing across the lawn, patriotic music drifting through the air, and fireworks waiting to light up the night. If you are still deciding where to spend your Fourth of July in Broome County, Kirkwood has put together a full day that makes it easy to stay from the first parade all the way to the grand finale.

Whether you're bringing little ones, meeting friends, or just looking for a hometown celebration, here is what to expect.

Kirkwood Fourth of July Parade Schedule

Shuttle service starts at noon, and parade participants line up at Kirkwood Gardens. At 1 p.m. on July 4th, the annual parade heads down Main Street, giving everyone a chance to wave flags and cheer on local groups.

The official opening ceremony follows at 1:45 p.m. on the Center Stage lawn with patriotic performances and special guests, and the festival opens at 2 p.m.

Games and Activities for the Kids

Bounce houses, face painting, barrel train rides, arts and crafts, and food vendors will keep kids busy all afternoon, along with a tractor show and living history exhibits families can explore together.

The games schedule runs:

• Potato sack race: 2:15 p.m.
• Water balloon toss and bucket brigade: 2:45 p.m.
• Colonial hoop relay: 3:45 p.m.
• Diaper derby: 5:15 p.m.
• Team tug of war: 7 p.m.

If you have a competitive streak, the tug of war closes things out with the most bragging rights on the line.

Live Music Lineup on the Center Stage

Alyssa Crosby performs at the gazebo from 3 to 4 p.m., followed by O’Shanigan’s concert and dancing from 5 to 7 p.m. on the tent stage. The Blue Velvet Big Band takes over the Center Stage lawn from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., setting the mood as the crowd settles in for the night’s biggest event.

A Look Back at Kirkwood’s History

Horse drawn carriage rides run from 2 to 4 p.m., and the Kirkwood Historical Society School Number 2 will be open for visitors. The Daughters of the American Revolution host story times throughout the afternoon, and Alden’s 6th Regiment presents a military demonstration at 4 p.m.

There is also a pie eating contest, more living history exhibits, and a portrayal of Revolutionary War flag maker Mary Young Pickersgill, timed to America’s 250th anniversary this year.

Kirkwood Fireworks and Hot Air Balloon Glow

All eyes turn to the upper soccer field starting at 7:30 p.m., weather permitting, for a hot air balloon demonstration and night glow. Then at 9:30 p.m., fireworks close out the night.

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Kirkwood Fourth of July Parking and Shuttle Info

Several parking areas will be available throughout Kirkwood, with shuttle service running continuously from 2 to 11 p.m.

• Senior parking: Kirkwood Volunteer Fire Department
• Accessible parking: Veterans River Park
• General parking: Lots line Route 11

Between the parade, the games, the music, and the fireworks, it is a full day, and you do not have to leave Broome County to spend it well.