Attendees at last year’s festivities enjoy the parade in patriotic fervor. Photo courtesy of Rick Sloan

RANCHO CORDOVA (MPG) - The 39th annual Rancho Cordova Fourth of July celebration promises to be a spectacular event, bringing the community together for two days of patriotic festivities at Hagan Community Park, 2197 Chase Drive.

This year’s celebration on July 3 and 4 will offer a vibrant parade, a variety of performances and family-friendly activities, all in honor of America’s heritage.

“The Rancho Cordova Fourth of July is the signature event for our community,” said Rancho Cordova Community Council Executive Director Shelly Blanchard. “It is one of the great moments of being a Rancho Cordova resident and there is truly something for everyone.”

 Last year, Cub Scouts took part in the Rancho Cordova 4th of July. Photo courtesy of Rick Sloan

Tickets are $5 per person if purchased online and tickets at the gate are $10 per person. Children ages 5 and under can enter for free. For those looking to enjoy the carnival rides, wristbands can be purchased for $30 in advance or $40 at the gate.

With more than 30 food and beverage vendors, attendees will have a variety of options. Ice-cold beer will be available, with proceeds supporting Mentors at Cordova High (MACH) and its youth program. This year, the festival also introduces Wines of the World, where wine purchases will benefit the Cordova Recreation and Park District Foundation, aiding local recreation and park programs.

For those looking for a premium experience, VIP tickets are available. The VIP package includes two complimentary beverage tickets, covered seating with tables and chairs, upgraded restrooms, and prime views of concerts and fireworks shows. Only 100 VIP tickets are available each day.

“We are expecting about 20,000 people attending.” Added Shelly Blanchard. 

On July 3, festivities kick off with gates opening at 4 p.m. From 4 to 11 p.m., carnival rides featuring thrill and kiddie rides, as well as midway games by World Amusements Carnival will be in full swing. At 8 p.m., the 3 Queens of Motown concert will feature Stacy Carter as a tribute to Diana Ross, Lea Sweet as a tribute to Tina Turner, and Samantha Alexes as a tribute to Aretha Franklin. Directed by music director Nathan Owens, the show promises high energy and great costumes. The night will conclude with the highly anticipated fireworks display at 9:45 p.m.

The celebration continues July 4, starting with the All-America Road Race at 9 a.m. on Coloma Road. This family-friendly event, sponsored by the Rancho Cordova Track Club, is a free, open to all ages and skill level one-mile fun run, walk or jog. Participants are encouraged to dress in patriotic red, white and blue, adding to the festive spirit.

Following the race, the Fourth of July Parade will start at 10 a.m., featuring floats and the All-American youth marching band. Hagan Community Park opens again at 4 p.m. for more carnival fun, leading up to an 8 p.m. concert by Summer Night City. This eight-piece production show will perform the greatest ABBA hits, setting the stage for another dazzling fireworks display at 9:45 p.m.

Additionally, the Los Moralitos Circus will perform on both days for two shows at 5 and 7 p.m., featuring fifth-generation tumblers, acrobats, aerialists, trapeze artists and contortionists. Their captivating performances are sure to be an event highlight.

For those interested in helping, organizers are looking for enthusiastic volunteers to support the event in various roles, including logistics, admissions, crowd control, parade management, set-up, volunteer care and clean up. Volunteers will receive free admission to the event, a complimentary T-shirt and free snacks. Those interested in helping can start by registering on the volunteer portal. The team will follow up to confirm participation.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.ranchocordovajuly4th.com.

 Attendees come together at last year’s Fourth of July carnival. Photo courtesy of Rick Sloan