By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
OZARK–Tomorrow is the day the community has been waiting for! That is, of course, the first-ever Ozark Community Fireworks Celebration, with families across the Wiregrass invited to gather Friday night, July 31, for an evening of entertainment, community pride, and a spectacular fireworks display at Matthews Stadium at Carroll High School.
The free community event will provide residents with an opportunity to come together and continue celebrating the spirit of America with a belated birthday celebration for the United States of America and the nationwide commemoration of the United States’ semiquincentennial.
Organizers say the event is designed to offer something for everyone, with activities planned for children, families, and community members of all ages.
Gates will open at 7 p.m., with activities beginning at 7:30 p.m. The evening will conclude with a fireworks show beginning at 9 p.m.
Guests are encouraged to arrive early to find parking and secure the best seating. Stadium seating will be available, but attendees may also bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy the celebration from designated viewing areas.
The evening’s activities will include:
🚁 Dale County Sheriff’s Department helicopter flyover
🪖 Alabama Army National Guard display
🎺 🎷📯👯♀️🥁🎶Community band performance
🏰 Inflatable attractions and games
🎨 Face painting
🪢🧑🦱👱🧑🦰🧵✨ Hair tinsel
🌟 Glow sticks
👨👩👧👦 Family activities
🍿 Concessions
🇺🇸💃🥼👗America 250 Costume Contest
🎆🎇💥 A spectacular fireworks show
The America 250 Costume Contest will allow participants to showcase their creativity with their own interpretation of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration. Organizers say there are no rules or limits on creativity, and audience applause will help determine the winner.
The contest winner will receive a $50 Blue Iguana gift card. 💳
Organizers are also encouraging attendees to support local students while enjoying the event. The Ozark Band Boosters will operate concessions, while Ozark Cheerleaders will provide face painting, hair tinsel, and glow sticks. Proceeds from these activities will help support student programs within Ozark City Schools.
In addition to enjoying the festivities, community members are invited to bring canned food donations to help support those in need. Donations are welcomed but are not required for admission.
To help ensure a safe and enjoyable evening for everyone, organizers have announced several event rules. Alcohol, illegal substances, glass containers, guns or weapons, personal drones, and large bags or backpacks will not be allowed. To enforce these rules, Harris Security has loaned out two security trailers, so be sure to have fun but do so in accordance with the rules.
The celebration is made possible by local sponsors and community partners who helped bring the inaugural event to life.
Organizers expressed their appreciation to the businesses and organizations whose generosity made the celebration possible, including presenting sponsor David Matthews for Congress, diamond sponsors Piggly Wiggly of Ozark, Alabama, and Rhonda Hayes at Alfa Insurance, gold sponsors, and bronze sponsors.
With free admission, family entertainment, community activities, and a fireworks finale, organizers hope the Ozark Community Fireworks Celebration becomes a new annual tradition for residents throughout the area.
Event Details
What: 🎇🇺🇸💥Ozark Community Fireworks Celebration
When: Friday, July 31, 2026
Where: 🦅Matthews Stadium at Carroll High School, Ozark, Alabama
Gates Open: 7 p.m.
Activities Begin: 7:30 p.m.
🎆🎇Fireworks Show: 9 p.m.
🆓🏷️Admission: Free
Residents are encouraged to wear their red, white, and blue, bring their families, and enjoy an evening celebrating community, patriotism, and the people who make Ozark special.
The community will gather Friday night under the lights for an unforgettable celebration.
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