Flower Mound Independence Fest
Celebrate America’s 250th birthday in style! Flower Mound’s Independence Fest is back and bigger than ever for America’s 250th birthday in 2026, and this year’s celebration is one you won’t want to miss.
The day begins with the always popular children’s parade and culminates into an evening concert, a vintage car show, and the biggest Fourth of July fireworks display Flower Mound has ever seen — a spectacular salute to America’s semiquincentennial anniversary.
Independence Fest kicks off at Leonard and Helen Johns Community Park with the annual Children’s Parade, a hometown favorite and a guaranteed photo-op for family and friends alike. Lineup begins at 9:45 am at the corner of Eaton and Timber Creek roads, and the parade sets off promptly at 10:15 am. Presented by MHS Planning & Design, the Children’s Parade is open to everyone who wants to participate.
Expect to see plenty of colorfully decorated bikes, wagons, and strollers as families make their way along a short route to the park’s parking lot. There, children will be treated to a variety of activities, including a foam party, face painting, performing magicians, and a chance to see gleaming fire engines up close, thanks to the Flower Mound Fire Department. The Summit Club of Flower Mound will also be serving free hot dogs and lemonade courtesy of Market Street.
After the morning parade and a midday break from the summer sun, visitors can resume their celebration at Bakersfield Park starting at 5 pm with the Jim Engel Car Show, presented by Time Machine Car Shows. Recently renamed in honor of former Flower Mound council member Jim Engel, the show promises classic muscle cars, vintage hot rods, and the kind of high-octane camaraderie car enthusiasts crave. Car owners wishing to participate can register at Heritage Park, where their vehicles will be subject to the Town of Flower Mound approval.
Other new additions to this year’s festival include an expanded Kid’s Zone, presented by CoServ, and a “Spirit Stage” with interactive games, offering participants a chance to win prizes. Food trucks will line the park, offering everything from classic fair food to gourmet specialties. Local vendors and community organizations will host booths with a variety of crafts, artisanal goods, and decor.
“We’re going all out this year,” said Melissa Demmitt, Communications Director for the Town of Flower Mound. “There’s going to be a little bit of everything for everyone.”
Once the sun starts to set, the action moves to the main stage for an evening concert featuring local fan favorites Emerald City Band, Le Freak, and multi-platinum country star Gabby Barrett. A major player in the country music scene, Barrett brings her big-stage presence and hometown appeal to Flower Mound for a special anniversary performance.
Before the headliner hits the stage,
Flower Mound’s mayor Cheryl Moore will speak to the crowd, followed by a rendition of the national anthem performed by local radio news anchor and Flower Mound native, John Liddle. During the performance, an awe-inspiring military flyover will soar overhead.
“All the action will be livestreamed to the jumbotron in the park, ensuring that everyone gets a good view,” Melissa said.
Of course, it wouldn’t be the Fourth of July without a fireworks show, which event officials promise will be the biggest and best fireworks show Flower Mound has ever produced — a fitting grand finale to commemorate America’s 250th birthday. Anticipating a phenomenal turnout, you are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good spot.
A free parking and shuttle service will be provided at multiple locations, beginning at 4:45 pm and continuing throughout the evening, briefly pausing
during the fireworks show. You will also be able to park and walk from nearby Lewisville – Harmon High School at 1250 W. Round Grove Rd.
Since this is Texas in July, be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, and consider an umbrella for shade. Coolers and lawn chairs will be allowed, however, alcoholic beverages will be prohibited but can be purchased onsite. Break out your red-white-and-blue attire and prepare to join the rest of America in what will surely be a night to remember.
For more information, visit flowermound.gov/festival
