Ore City’s annual Independence Day Celebration has been set for Friday and Saturday, July 3 and 4.

The 37th Annual July 4 Fun Festival kicks off with the introduction of the 2009 Miss Ore City Fun Festival Queens at 7:30 p.m. Friday.

A barn dance featuring Paul Hamilton, Jerry Haymes and other well-known musicians will begin at 8 p.m., continuing until midnight, with a break at 10 p.m. for a giant fireworks show.

On Saturday, a parade begins downtown at 9 a.m. This year’s Grand Marshal is Katy René Breazeale from Australia.

Following the parade Lynn Alexander will sing the National Anthem and CheyAne Smith will sing God Bless the USA at the bandstand.

Gospel singing begins at 10 a.m., featuring David’s Song from Tyler, the Lewis Family and other local singers, continuing until 2:30 p.m.

Games for the children and other activities also begin at 10 a.m. They include a Horseshoe Tournament, Water Balloon War, Haystack Scramble, Sack Race, Broad Jump, Tug-O-War, Bubble Blowing Contest, Softball Toss, Pea Shelling Contest, and Watermelon Eating Contest.

Food concession booths and Mini Flea Market booths will be located next to the Fire Station.

There will be hourly drawings for door prizes. You must sign up each hour at the bandstand area.

Everyone is invited to bring lawn chairs and enjoy good food, entertainment and fellowship.

Watch for a schedule of events and gospel singing schedule in an upcoming issue of The Mirror.