HOUSTON’S FOURTH OF July celebration, Shell Freedom Over Texas, is an annual patriotic tradition, with great food, plenty of family-friendly activities, live music performances by local and national superstars, and an awesome fireworks display.

“Shell Freedom Over Texas is Houston’s hallmark civic event,” said Mayor Sylvester Turner in a statement. “It is a true pleasure to welcome our sponsors and to celebrate the birth of our nation. We will be paying tribute to the men and women who have made great sacrifices to ensure our freedoms.”

Yola

Beginning at 4pm, there will be plenty of activities to enjoy before the music gets rolling, including the Bud Light Bayou Bash, a sunny area with a great view of the main stage with for lawn games for everyone; DICK’s Sporting Goods All-American Kids Zone, a children’s entertainment area with games, rides, and more; Liberty Park, which pays tribute to all branches of the military with a display of military vehicles and an exclusive Space City Experience provided by NASA; and the Dr Pepper Flavor Zone, where there will be dancing, Dr Pepper floats, and a live performance by Step Rideau and the Zydeco Outlaws. (Expect to sing along in both English and Creole French!)

Over at the Shell Main Stage, multi-platinum recording artist and Grand Ole Opry member Chris Young will treat Houston fans to a set of his Hot Country hits, including two back-to-back number ones: “Losing Sleep” and “Sober Saturday Night.” Special guests include six-time Grammy Nominee and American Music Award winner Yola, who recently made her acting debut as Sister Rosetta Tharpe in Baz Luhrman’s biopic Elvis; the Houston-based Keeshea Pratt Band, who play a very Southern blend of blues, gospel, rock and country and feature a four-piece horn section; and the soul, R&B, and funk ensemble TMF (“the music forever”) Formerly of Maze, who carry on the legacy of the legendary Philadelphia-soul man Frankie Beverly and now features Houstonian Chris Walker on lead vocals.

Shell Freedom Over Texas takes place July 4, 4pm-10pm at Eleanor Tinsley and Sam Houston Parks on Buffalo Bayou (along Allen Parkway). Tickets are available online and at the gates.