Approximately 5,000 people flocked to Arnold City Park for the city’s Independence Day Celebration, organizers said.
The annual event on June 27 featured an eagle flying over the crowd, photo opportunities with a bald eagle and Civil War reenactors, stilt walkers, a rifle salute, a lighting feature commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary, performance by a country band and, of course, a fireworks display.
“I think everything was amazing,” said Ajsa Roach, Arnold Parks and Recreation Department deputy director. “We were thrilled with the turnout and community support.”
Roach said Maverick, an eagle from the World Bird Sanctuary, flew over the crowd while Bobby Ford of the Bobby Ford Band sang the national anthem, and another highlight was the Marine Corps League 707 Jeffco Detachment performing a rifle salute, playing taps and folding an American flag.
“I thought it was incredible to see Maverick fly over the crowd,” she said.
Roach said city staff members worked quickly to get the park ready for the evening event after a heavy rain storm moved through Arnold early in the afternoon on the day of the event.
“It did impact some parking,” she said of the rain. “The park staff added mulch in some wet spots. Overall, we were very thankful the downpour happened before the event, and it did not keep people away.”
Along with the eagle, the celebration had stilt walkers dressed as the Statue of Liberty and Uncle Sam roaming the park and stopping to take pictures. Members of the National Sons of the American Revolution also were at the park, and area vendors sold various foods and beverages.
“Everything went amazing,” Roach said. “We added the Statue of Liberty (stilt walker.). She was a good addition. We got good feedback about that. It all added to the event. There were a lot of great photo ops.”
Roach said the Veterans Commission collected $1,073 from raffle and 50/50 drawing ticket sales. She said the commission will use the money to continue to maintain the Veterans Memorial at the Arnold Recreation Center, 1695 Missouri State Road.
“There was great support from the community for the Arnold Veterans Commission,” she said.
Roach said 15 people entered the pie eating contest. Linwood Vaughan of Eureka won the competition, finishing a pie in 2 minutes and 10 seconds.
“The guy killed it,” Roach said. “That was crazy.”
Roach said the Bobby Ford Band, led by Ford of Arnold, was a hit.
“They did an amazing job,” she said. “It was their first time at the park, and we were definitely pleased.”
Arnold staff members used LED lights to create a 250th light display near the park’s lake, and the evening’s fireworks display ended with some extra flare thanks to a donation from the Arnold Jaycees.
Roach said the city paid Gateway Pyrotechnic Productions $35,500 for the approximately 15-minute show, and the Jaycees donated $5,000 for the grand finale.
“I think we keep our title for the best fireworks in Jefferson County,” Roach said. “We are grateful for the Arnold Jaycees helping with the grand finale. I think everyone was very pleased. It was an amazing show.”
