Fireworks included in Fourth activites scheduled at Ridge Ferry Park in Rome

The Color Me Free 5K and fireworks is scheduled at 6 p.m. Friday, July 4, at Ridge Ferry Park in Rome, Georgia.

This is a community celebration to kick off Independence Day. Race day registration opens at 4:30 p.m. and is $35; the race starts at 6 p.m.

“The run is geared for the whole family”, says Rebecca Wood, race director. “Since there are no winners or official times, it’s great for everyone including first time runners, kids and athletes. Runners will get doused in a rainbow of colors and may also run through misting stations to stay cool.”

The race will start and end by the Ridge Ferry stage. Every few minutes, a new color explosion party starts at the finish line. A Live DJ will keep runners pumped and excited before and after the race.

“Everyone participating in the race is encouraged to wear white,” says Wood, “but we will also host a costume contest with prizes after the race for those who want to get creative with wigs, tutus or something patriotic.”

Family games will follow the race and include a Watermelon Eating Contest, Hula Hoop Contest and ThreeLegged Race. Everyone is welcome to participate in the free games where prizes will be awarded. Families will also enjoy the Kids Zone where they can purchase armbands to enjoy the inflatables.

At 8 p.m., Babes Bayou Band will take the Ridge Ferry Park stage and will play until the fireworks program starts at 9:00 p.m. New to this year’s line-up is patriotic sing-along featuring the Harbin Clinic Choir.

Vendors will be on-site to sell refreshments and treats. The vendor area will also feature a separate beer garden with tables and chairs.

The fireworks begin at 9:45 and will be as large as lasts year’s show,” says Betsy Hampson, recreation manager. “Thanks to the support of Parker Systems who donates their pyrotechnic services so that Harbin Clinic’s sponsorship dollars go further, the show will be visible in downtown Rome and all around Rome. There will also be a special fireworks treat visible to those viewing from Ridge Ferry Park.”

Babes Bayou Band will return to the Ridge Ferry Park stage for an encore performance after the fireworks and will play until 11 p.m.

The public is encouraged to bring chairs and blankets for lawn seating.

Parking and park admission is free. The public can access Ridge Ferry Park from the Farmer’s Market and Shoals parking lots. Additional parking is also available across the street from Ridge Ferry Park. Handicap parking will be available in the park.