A group of kids beat the heat aboard a float complete with an inflatable pool during Rancho Cordova’s Fourth of July parade. Photo by Rick Sloan

 

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - Clear your calendar and break out the stars and stripes, Rancho Cordova’s 40th annual Fourth of July Celebration is back and better than ever.

This two-day extravaganza, hosted by the Cordova Community Council, returns to Hagan Community Park, 2197 Chase Drive, on July 3 and 4, offering a jam-packed schedule of fireworks, food, live music and family-friendly fun.

“No community event reflects the spirit of Rancho Cordova like the Fourth of July. It is an all-volunteer effort that, like our city, evolves with each passing year, growing and improving upon itself,” as stated on the events website.

A local family enjoys the festive atmosphere during Rancho Cordova’s Independence Day celebration. Photo by Rick Sloan

The fun kicks off early on July 4 with the All-America Mile, a one-mile dash suitable for all ages and abilities. Participants should check in at 9 a.m. July 4 at Coloma and Aramon and are encouraged to dress in red, white and blue for a chance at gift card prizes. Registration is open online and all runners score a free T-shirt.

The Fourth of July Parade follows at 10 a.m., marching 1.5 miles down Coloma Road, proceeding west on Chase Drive and left on Rinda Drive, ending near Cordova Gardens Elementary School. The parade will not enter Hagan Park. Coloma and side streets will close at 8:30 a.m.

Be sure to register your group by June 26; entries are limited to the first 100 and cost $40. The check-in booth opens at 7:30 a.m. and closes at 8:30 a.m. All groups must be checked in before 8:30 a.m. on July 4.

The Fourth of July Parade will start at 10 a.m. July 4 marching down Coloma Road. Photo by Rick Sloan

This year’s parade includes something extra special: the All-American Youth Band Showcase, featuring up to 10 marching bands vying for $2,500 prizes and big-time bragging rights.

“This is the biggest family summer picnic in Rancho Cordova,” said Shelly Blanchard, executive director of the Cordova Community Council. “It’s going to be fantastic, two great days to see the best fireworks in Northern California and you don’t have to leave Rancho Cordova to enjoy it.”

On both days at 4 p.m., gates to Hagan Community Park open to reveal a wonderland of fun.

There’s something for everyone, from midway games and kiddie rides by Brass Ring Amusements to circus spectacles that defy gravity. The “It’s Showtime Circus” will amaze with BMX stunts, fire shows, aerial acrobatics and even the legendary Globe of Death. Catch performances at 5:30 and 7 p.m. July 3 and July 4.

Brass Ring Amusements will provide entertainment for everyone from midway games to kiddie rides. Photo by Rick Sloan

Then, as the sun sets, the stage lights up. Big Crush brings the dance vibes July 3 and Mustache Harbor smoothly sails into soft rock glory on July 4. Both concerts start at 8 p.m.

Each night ends with a fireworks finale at 9:45 p.m.

Most importantly, don’t forget to bring your appetite. With more than 20 food vendors, you’ll find everything from Filipino fusion, classic American food and tacos to mini donuts and snow cones. Favorites include Namaste, Fry Boys, Drewskis, and Tikiz, plus local brews served at two beer stations benefitting MACH (Mentors at Cordova High).

Admission is $5 online or $10 at the gate (children 5 and under are free). If you attend both days, one ticket per day will be required.

The “It’s Showtime Circus” will amaze attendees at this year’s July 4 celebrations. Courtesy photo

Want to level up your experience? VIP tickets are available for $88.54, plus fees. This includes shaded seating, private restrooms, beverage tickets and prime views of the action. Only 100 VIP tickets are sold per day.

All-day carnival tickets are $40 at the gate and $30 when purchased in advance until July 2. Tickets can be purchased online or visit KP International Market, 10971 Olson Drive, for the option to pay in cash.

Parking is $10 cash only, and while seating isn’t included with general admission, blankets and lawn chairs are welcome. Leave the pets, personal fireworks and barbecues at home and expect bag checks and metal detectors at the entrance.

For more information, parade entry, runner registration and discounted carnival tickets, visit online at www.ranchocordovajuly4th.com.