Once again, Callaway is the place to be for 4th of July fun. The Sue Phelps family will carry on their annual tradition of sponsoring and organizing a community fireworks display to be held at the ballfield at dusk.

The holiday celebration begins prior to the fireworks, however. At 8 p.m. the Callaway American Legion will conduct a flag retirement ceremony on the ballfield. The fire department will be present and offering free fire truck rides to the kids.

The American Legion Auxiliary will be giving out complimentary popcorn and water, the Callaway Market is sponsoring free ice cream sandwiches, and The Plant Stand will have free cotton candy available on the grounds. There will also be patriotic gifts for all of the kids in attendance.

Donations for this event are appreciated and can be made at Nebraska State Bank or on the night of the fireworks show.

Central Nebraska offers several options for things to do during the July 4th weekend that don’t require a lot of money or travel time. If you are looking for an activity before the fireworks display to celebrate the holiday weekend, consider visiting one of our beautiful area parks.

Step back in time and celebrate Independence Day over the 4th of July weekend at Fort Kearny State Historical Park. Reenactors will be at the park to discuss life as a soldier celebrating Independence Day during the fort’s early days. Visitors to the park will be able to explore exhibits and the reconstructed buildings, including the stockade, grounds, powder magazine and blacksmith/carpenter shop.

Living history demonstrations will take place from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Friday and Saturday and 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Sunday. There will be a special musical presentation at 1:45 p.m. each day, followed by a cannon firing at 2 p.m.

A park entry permit is required of each vehicle entering the park, and are available at the park entrance.