Parish makes changes for 35th anniversary of celebration
St. Charles Parish will host its annual Independence Day celebration on Thursday, July 3 at the West Bank Bridge Park.
The celebration will end with an over 15-minute firework show set to patriotic music.
“We’re most excited to see our residents come together to enjoy great music, delicious food, and a fantastic fireworks display,” said Grayson Touchard, a spokesperson for the parish’s parks and recreation department. “It’s always a joy to see the community celebrate and make lasting memories.”
Gates open at 5:30 p.m. The opening ceremony will begin with a local Boy Scout troop raising the flag. Ryan Foret and the Foret Tradition will take the stage at 6 p.m. and fireworks will launch at 9 p.m.
“This year’s display will be a little longer than in previous years in celebration of a milestone year for the event,” Touchard said.
Touchard said the event has grown significantly over the years.
“With each passing year, we’ve seen more community involvement and feedback, which has helped us enhance the event,” she said. “While we celebrate our nation’s independence, this event also reflects the strong partnership we share with our community.”
This year, the event will feature a selection of local food trucks.
“Final details are still being confirmed, and we’ll share the full list of vendors once it’s finalized,” Touchard said.
I-310 southbound and northbound off-ramps to River Road (LA 18) will be closed 15 minutes before the fireworks and throughout the show, and River Road (LA 18) will be closed from Ashton Road to the School Board Office.
Pets, glass bottles, and poppers are not allowed in West Bank Bridge Park. No alcohol will be sold at the event. Residents may bring their own ice chests and folding chairs.
The state fire marshal has ordered that no one be allowed to enter or leave the park for up to 30 minutes before and after the fireworks show. The West Bank Bridge Park, including the parking lot near the levee, will be closed the afternoon of July 2 in anticipation of this event, and the public will not be allowed to use the bike path, drive or walk past barricades present near the levee during fireworks setup.
