The annual Firefighters Freedom Festival – sponsored by the Madison County Fire Department – will be held, Tuesday, July 4, at McKellar-Sipes Regional Airport.

Steve Smith, the executive director at the airport, won’t be surprised if the crowd reaches or exceeds 12,000.

“The first three years, we’ve had from 8,000 to 12,000,” Smith said. “There’s plenty of parking. Just follow the electronic signs and the firemen will help you park.”

Gates open at 3 p.m., and the free, family oriented festival features live music following the 5 p.m. opening ceremonies.

About 20 food vendors will be selling food and drinks, or you may bring your own picnic basket – no grills.

Audrey Geisel takes the stage at 5:30 p.m., and The Genre Band follows at 6:45 p.m., and fireworks at 9 p.m., will bring the program to a close.

The Madison County Fire Department consists of 180 volunteer members who are responsible for providing fire safety education to school children, civic groups and businesses throughout Madison County.

(PHOTO: Workers prepare the main stage for the Firefighters Freedom Festival)

David Thomas, Twitter – @DavidThomasWNWS
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