CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – Clarksville and Montgomery County will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with two days of events downtown, plus a full Independence Day celebration at Fort Campbell.

Here are the major Fourth of July events taking place across the area this year.

Downtown Clarksville Friday

The two-day celebration begins Friday at 5 p.m., with the posting of the colors and the national anthem. City Mayor Joe Pitts will welcome everyone, and County Mayor Wes Golden will share remarks, followed by live music on both downtown stages plus a Ferris wheel, big slide and merry-go-round.

Merry-go-round set up at Downtown Commons on July 2, 2026, in preparation for Fourth of July celebrations this weekend. (Chris Smith)
Merry-go-round set up at Downtown Commons on July 2, 2026, in preparation for Fourth of July celebrations this weekend. (Chris Smith)

Pitts will give brief remarks before the fireworks, which this year will begin at 9:15 p.m. from the riverside near McGregor Park. McGregor Park will be closed during the show, and the fireworks will be visible from downtown.

Downtown Clarksville Saturday

Events continue on Independence Day with fitness, history, music and family activities throughout downtown:

Patriotic Workout

  • Where: Downtown Commons, 215 Legion St.
  • When: 7-8 a.m.
  • Cost: Free
  • Details: Hosted by Burn Boot Camp and open to all ages. No registration required.
Slide set up at Downtown Commons on July 2, 2026, in preparation for Fourth of July celebrations this weekend. (Chris Smith)
Slide set up at Downtown Commons on July 2, 2026, in preparation for Fourth of July celebrations this weekend. (Chris Smith)

America’s 250th 5K

  • Where: McGregor Park, 640 Riverside Drive
  • When: 7-8:30 a.m.
  • Cost: $48.50 and register here.
  • Details: Annual holiday run along the riverfront.

Declaration of Independence Reading

  • Where: Historic Courthouse, 1 Millennium Plaza
  • When: 9-10 a.m.
Patriotic citizens of Clarksville-Montgomery County came together and celebrated the nation's birthday at the annual reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2025. (Lee Erwin)
Patriotic citizens of Clarksville-Montgomery County came together and celebrated the nation’s birthday at the annual reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2025. (Lee Erwin)

Classic Car Show

  • Where: Second Street
  • When: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
  • Details: Patriotic car show featuring vehicles representing 250 years of American history.

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Live Performances

  • Where: Downtown Commons and Public Square
  • When: Throughout the day
  • Details: Music, dance groups, magicians and local performers.

Lowe’s Hot Dog Eating Contest

  • Where: Downtown Commons
  • When: 2-2:30 p.m.

Drone Show

  • Where: Downtown Commons
  • When: 9 p.m.
  • Details: Patriotic aerial display closing out the celebration.

The full schedule can be viewed here.

Downtown roads will begin closing Wednesday and remain closed until after the holiday. APSU will offer free parking in all lots Friday through Saturday, and ADA parking will be available in the First Street and Cumberland garages. For full parking maps, road closures and safety rules, see the county’s statement.

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Fort Campbell Saturday

Fort Campbell will host its own America250 Independence Day festivities with carnival hours, live music and fireworks.

America250 Block Party

  • Where: Division Parade Field, 6390 Desert Storm Ave.
  • Cost: Free
  • Details: Special attractions open at 1 p.m. and concerts begin at 6 p.m., featuring Aaron Tippin, Eric Lee Beddingfield, the 101st Airborne Division Band and The Legend of Charlie Daniels Tribute Concert including a state-of-the art-Charlie Daniels hologram. Fireworks will follow the concert.

Carnival

  • Where: Division Parade Field
  • When: July 1-3 from 5-10 p.m., July 4 from 1-10 p.m.
  • Cost: Different promotions each day, so check here.
  • Details: Rides typically cost 3-6 tickets and armbands are valid only on the day of purchase.

Visitors should enter through Gate 1, Gate 4, or Gate 7. A valid ID is required for those 18 and up, and all vehicles are subject to search. More information about visitor check in can be found here. Coolers, outside food or drinks, glass, pets, firearms, personal fireworks, large bags and canopies after 5 p.m. are prohibited.

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