People in the Roundtopolis know how to throw a party and 4th of July 2018 is a top-notch reason to celebrate. We've compiled a list of things to do (a few tips for beating the heat) so you can have fun in the sun this Independence Day.
People in the Roundtopolis™ know how to throw a party—and Independence Day aka 4th of July is a top-notch reason to celebrate. Read on for our 2018 roundup of 4th of July events as well as a few held a day or two early.
(This list was compiled through an informal Google search. If you’ve got a favorite community, check on its plans. All events are July 4 unless otherwise noted.)
We’ve also included a few tips for safe fun in the sun at the height of Texas’ summer.
Round Top: The Grandaddy of Them All
For almost 170 years, Round Top, home of the longest running 4th July celebration west of the Mississippi River, has celebrated with a bang. With a patriotic kick-off on the square beginning at 10 a.m., a huge All-American parade at 10:30 a.m. and a barbecue lunch accompanied by beer and music at the Round Top Rifle Hall, 2018 is no exception.
Other Round Top Events
June 30
4th Annual Round Top Independence Day Spectacular at The Compound (fireworks, live music, food trucks and more)
July 1
Patriotic Concert at Festival Hill (classical concert featuring All-American favorites)
July 4
3rd Annual Townsend Provisions 4th of July Party (mimosas, boot sale, parade watching)
More Festive, Fun-filled Destinations
(listed alphabetically by towns)
Bastrop Patriotic Festival Weekend, June 29 – 30 (water wonderland, airboat rides, skydivers, kids’ activities and more)
4th of July Chappell Hill Parade & Cool Rods Car Show (parade, car show and more)
Columbus 4th of July Celebration (food, games, vendors, water slides and more)
Push, Pedal and Pull People’s Patriotic Parade in Elgin (parade, program at Veteran’s Park)
(Giddings Firemen’s 4th of July Celebration and Sheriff’s Posse Bullriding (music, antique carousel, auction and bullriding [the following week])
4th of July in Independence (trail ride, water balloon fight, parade and street dance)
116th Annual Celebration at Kenney Agricultural Hall (barbecue lunch, bounce house, petting zoo)
St. John July 4th Picnic in St. John near Schulenburg (auction, raffle drawing, meal, music)
IMPORTANT NOTE: As of 2018, “Fireworks on the Brazos,” hosted at Washington on the Brazos has been RETIRED.
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Tips for Enjoying 4th of July Festivities in the Roundtopolis
Here are a few of our tips to have fun in the sun in the Roundtopolis.
1) Parades generally start mid-morning to beat the heat. People begin arriving early to claim spots, especially those rare shaded ones, along the route.
2) Be mindful that the combination of heat and humidity pack a powerful punch, especially for small children, elderly people and anyone who isn’t accustomed to being in the heat for an extended period.
3) If you’re standing on the asphalt the heat reflecting up from below intensifies the experience.
4) Wear lightweight, comfortable clothes, a hat and plenty of sunscreen.
5) Drink plenty of water along with any other beverages you might enjoy. (NOTE: An ice chest with water, drinks and wet washcloths or bandanas makes cooling off easy on the way home.)
6) Bring bags or small buckets allow your little ones to gather up all the goodies thrown their way.
7) Find shade…or bring your own in the form of a pop-up canopy. Easy-to-carry chairs make it all more comfortable. The amount of elbow room may vary from town to town. Check before you go.