The Star Spangled Classic, a family-friendly Independence Day celebration, will take place Saturday, June 30 in downtown Athens. The event is free of charge.

Activities begin at 5:00 p.m. and include live music by The Funk Brotherhood, children’s activities, and food trucks. The kids zone will feature bouncy houses and a variety of rides with fees of $2-$7. The festival area will be on College Avenue from Hancock Avenue to East Clayton Street and on East Washington Street from North Lumpkin Street to North Thomas Street.

The highlight of the evening will be a fireworks display scheduled for approximately 9:30 p.m. The fireworks will be launched in the vicinity of the Classic Center parking deck. This year's event will be synchronized to a patriotic playlist that is available for download to smartphones at www.accgov.com/fireworks. Recommended viewing areas for the fireworks are the block of East Clayton Street from North Jackson Street to North Thomas Street that will open at 8:30 p.m. and the area around City Hall on College Avenue.

Public parking is available at parking meters and the four downtown parking decks. Normal rates and times apply. Private parking lots may allow public parking for a fee, but some may not allow any public parking and may tow or boot vehicles parked there without permission. Check for signs or instructions before parking vehicles in any locations. Due to the location of the fireworks launch, Athens-Clarke County Transit and the Multimodal Transportation Center will close at 7:45 p.m.

Attendees are discouraged from bringing pets to the event due to the crowds, loud noises from fireworks, and potentially hot asphalt and sidewalks.

This event is sponsored by the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government, Cox Radio, the Athens Downtown Development Authority, Creature Comforts, Jackson Spalding, Athens Orthopedic Clinic, Classic City Karate, American Pest Control, and Kum’s Fashions.