Q: Who runs the event?
A: The Independence Day Celebration is organized by two groups. Events at Riverwalk Parks and this website are organized by the Independence Day Celebration Committee (IDCC). The Parade is organized by the Independence Chamber of Commerce.

Q: Where is Riverwalk Parks?
A: Riverwalk Parks collectively is Brimmer Park, Teacher’s Park, Band Shell and the boat landing make up the scenic Independence riverfront. The Independence Day Celebration takes place north of downtown on the east side of the Wapsipinicon River at the corner of 6th Street and 1st Avenue NE. Spring of 2004 saw the construction of a new state-of-the-art Band Shell at that location. The Band Shell is the home for all musical performance.

Q: Who pays for all this?
A: The bulk of the celebration comes through a mixture of private and corporate donations. The City of Independence has maintained its traditional funding of the fireworks and all city departments have been extremely supportive. Of course you the patron of this event help through drink and food. Without this amazing spirit of cooperation, generosity, and patronage the Independence Day Celebration would not be possible.

Q: Who profits from the Celebration?
A: From the beginning of the Independence Day Celebration it was determined that all proceeds would be returned to the Celebration for the next year’s activities. All funds are located in the IDCC account maintained by BankIowa.

Q: How do I or my group become a food vendor?
A: Food concessions are available on a first-come, first-serve basis with preference given first to previous concessions. An application for a concession is located under the “Forms & Downloads” section of this website. The IDCC approves all menus well in advance of the event. The IDCC maintains all rights to pop, beer, bottled water and any other beverage sales.

Q: Is there parking near the event?
A: There is a good deal of parking area north of the Band Shell. The many streets and avenues around the Parks allow for curbside parking, but we ask that you please respect the people’s homes you are parking in front of.

Q: Where can I view the fireworks?
A: Riverwalk Parks is the best vantage point for viewing the fireworks. There are concessions, restrooms and musical entertainment before and after the fireworks.

Veteran’s Park on the west side of the river and south of Riverwalk Parks also offers exceptional viewing. We suggest you arrive at your viewing location at least 45 to 60 minutes before dusk. Again, please respect the rights of private property.

Q: I want to enjoy all the music and concessions, is there enough seating?
A: There is plenty of seating space. It is recommended that you bring your blanket or folding chairs for your viewing and listening pleasure. There are also picnic tables scattered around the area for your convenience.

Q: If want to volunteer?
A: Contact Janet Buls at volunteer@indytel.com.