Jun 26 2008
Plan an inspiring July Fourth in the American West. Looking for memorable festivities? Head to communities in Cochise County (southern Arizona). Benson, Bisbee, Sierra Vista and Tombstone, where lots of activities are planned. Benson - Festivities in Benson start off with the annual morning parade, followed by the popular “Water Fight” at Lions Park. The water fight is a competition between local volunteer fire departments. Contestants try to move a barrel on a pulley system using hoses. The barrel slides toward the opposing team. Spectators often get a refreshing soak, and the kids can play in the mud. Entertainment and music fill the day, with fireworks at dusk.
When: Parade 9 a.m., Water Fight 10:30 a.m., Fireworks 8:30 p.m.
Where: Various Benson Locations
Admission: Free
Info: 520-586-4293 or info@bensonvisitorcenter.com
Bisbee - The famous Bisbee Coaster Races down Tombstone Canyon, the oldest and longest gravity-powered race in the U.S., starts at 9 a.m. Between heats, runners compete in the Bisbee Iron Man Mile. A parade lines the streets of Bisbee’s Warren section. In the afternoon muckers dig in with shovels flying as they fill mining carts with gravel in a timed competition. Hard-rock drillers pound metal stakes into rock with a four-pound hammer. The contestant that pounds the deepest hole into the rock will claim the cash prize. Fireworks held at Vista Park.
When: beginning at 9 a.m., July 4
Where: Bisbee locations
Admission: Free
Info: 520-432-6016 or www.discoverbisbee.com
Sierra Vista - The 41st annual Fourth of July festivities begin July 3 with a youth talent show at Veterans' Memorial Park, followed by a street dance with the popular band “Train Wreck.” Celebrations include the Pets & People parade, with entertainment, food and displays. The Commander of the U.S. Army Intelligence Center and Fort Huachuca will address the crowd at a noon ceremony, complete with an F-16 flyover and a 50-gun salute. A spectacular fireworks show starts at dusk at the Paiz/Stone Complex, on Tacoma St.
When: 6 p.m., July 3; all day, July 4
Where: Veterans’ Memorial Park, 3105 E. Fry Blvd.
Admission: Free
Info: 520-266-2304 or www.visitsierravista.com
Tombstone - America’s special day is celebrated with its national pastime with a softball tournament to start the celebrations, so cheer for your team! Food booths, street entertainment and a rousing fireworks display at dusk make for a true Western independence celebration.
When: 9 a.m.
Where: Medigovich Field, Allen Street
Admission: Free
Info: 520-457-3994
