The Brackenridge Recreation Complex (BRC) is excited to invite the community to its annual Independence Day Celebration on Saturday, July 4, 2026, at Brackenridge Park & Campground. This free community event will feature a full day of patriotic activities, family-friendly entertainment, and a spectacular fireworks display as part of the nationwide celebration of America's 250th Birthday. Sponsored by the Lavaca-Navidad River Authority!
This year's event will feature a patriotic flag ceremony, antique tractor show, Ride'Em-Push'Em-Pull'Em Parade, Watermelon Eating Contest, Red, White & Blue Bingo, craft activities, waterslide fun, live entertainment by DJ Jason Helton, and of course... FIREWORKS! All activities are FREE and open to the public!
The day begins at 8:30 AM with a patriotic gathering at the Flag Pole outside the Harry Hafernick Recreation Center (HHRC). All are invited to join BRC staff and the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture as we kick off America's 250th celebration with the raising of the American Flag, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the unveiling of a special star-spangled banner. Following the ceremony, guests are invited inside the HHRC for complimentary coffee and donuts while supplies last.
From 9:00 AM until 2:00 PM, visitors can enjoy an Antique Tractor Show located in the field between the HHRC and Mini Golf area. Antique tractor enthusiasts from throughout the area will showcase their restored equipment, providing a unique opportunity for attendees to admire these pieces of agricultural history.
At 10:30 AM, children are invited to participate in the Ride'Em-Push'Em-Pull'Em Parade. Participants are encouraged to decorate their bicycles, tricycles, wagons, strollers, and other non-motorized vehicles in patriotic colors and show off their Independence Day spirit. The parade will begin at Comfort Station #1 and conclude at Comfort Station #2. 1st - 3rd place awards will be given out for best decorated!!
The ever-popular Watermelon Eating Contest returns this year! Registration begins at 11:00 AM, with the contest kicking off at 11:30 AM. Two age divisions will compete: ages 9-15 and ages 16 and older. Participants will race to see who can finish their watermelon the fastest and claim bragging rights as this year's Watermelon Eating Champion. Prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers in the 9–15 age division, while the 16-and-older division winner will take home the 1st Place prize.
Looking to cool off? Waterslide Fun will be available from 12:00 PM until 5:00 PM near the HHRC parking area. Bring an extra set of clothes and enjoy a refreshing afternoon of fun in the summer sun.
Beginning at 1:00 PM, guests can head inside the HHRC for Red, White & Blue Bingo. Participants will play for patriotic-themed prizes and community bragging rights. This activity is free and open to all ages.
At 2:00 PM, the Antique Tractor Parade will make its way through Brackenridge Park, giving visitors an up-close look at these impressive machines as they travel through the campground.
From 3:00 PM until 4:00 PM, families are invited to participate in the Craft Zone and Popsicle Social. Guests can create festive Independence Day crafts, get an Independence Day themed tattoo all while enjoying a cool summertime treat. Popsicles while supplies last.
Also beginning at 3:00 PM, judges will visit participating campsites and cabins for the Best Decorated Campsite/Cabin Contest. Campers are encouraged to decorate their sites in patriotic colors and themes. One lucky winner per park will earn an award as the most patriotic campsite or cabin at the park.
Evening entertainment begins at 7:30 PM on the Brackenridge Basketball Court with music provided by DJ Jason Helton. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, gather with family and friends, and enjoy an evening of music, dancing, and celebration leading up to the fireworks show.
The FREE Fireworks Show at Brackenridge Park & Campground is scheduled to begin at 9:15 PM. The beautiful display utilizes a wide variety of fireworks effects for maximum impact and audience appeal. Visitors can best view the event from the grassy areas surrounding the Harry Hafernick Recreation Center. Be sure to arrive early to secure a great viewing spot.
We invite you to bring your family and friends and enjoy a full day of patriotic fun as we celebrate Independence Day and America's 250th Birthday at Brackenridge Park & Campground.
Brackenridge Park & Campground is located approximately six miles south of Edna on State Highway 111. For more information, please call (361) 782-5456