CLEARWATER, Fla. – The city of Clearwater is officially gearing up for a massive week-long party this summer to mark the United States’ 250th anniversary. Dubbed “Clearwater Celebrates 250,” the city-wide festival will feature a series of themed community events starting in late June and culminating in a two-day patriotic blowout at Coachman Park on July 3 and 4.
City officials confirmed that multiple departments are coordinating to highlight America’s semi-quincentennial. The grand finale at Coachman Park, titled “Clearwater Celebrates America,” will kick off at 5 p.m. both nights.
Attendees can expect a kids’ zone, local food, and a variety of musical acts and street performers. While July 3 will wrap up with a high-tech laser light show, the traditional Fourth of July fireworks will serve as the week’s official closing ceremony.
For those looking to give back, the “Clearwater Serves 2.50” initiative offers residents a chance to volunteer in two-and-a-half-hour shifts throughout the week. Local businesses and non-profits are also being encouraged by the city to apply to have their own gatherings recognized as official “Clearwater Celebrates 250” events.
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The schedule is packed with niche activities for all ages. On June 26, the Main Library hosts “Patriotic Pup Pals,” where kids can read to therapy dogs. History buffs can head to the Clearwater Historical Society on June 27 for an “American Girl Celebration” featuring trivia and crafts, or catch the Florida Suncoast Chorus at the Countryside Library the same afternoon for a performance of American barbershop classics.
The libraries will keep the momentum going with a “Bracelet Bash” on June 29, a duck decorating contest on June 30, and a “National Parks” workshop at the North Greenwood branch on July 1. On July 2, families can head back to the Main Library to try their hand at 18th-century colonial games.
The celebration even extends to the pool and the diamond. On July 4, several local recreation centers—including Clearwater Beach, Morningside, North Greenwood, and Ross Norton—will give away 250 free hot dogs starting at noon.
Meanwhile, baseball fans can catch the Clearwater Threshers at BayCare Ballpark on July 3 and 4. Both games start at 6:30 p.m. and will be followed by what the team calls the season’s largest fireworks displays.
For a full list of times, locations, and registration links for specific events, residents are encouraged to visit the city’s dedicated website at MyClearwater.com/250.
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