BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) Bakersfield’s annual Independence Day celebration and free fireworks show will return to The Park at River Walk on July 3, with organizers expecting a crowd in the tens of thousands.

“It’s a very popular event. We have thousands of people come every year. I think it’s between 10 to 15,000 people come to this event,” Bakersfield Public Information Officer Joe Conroy, said.

With this Fourth of July marking the 250th anniversary of America’s independence, the city has partnered with a new group for the celebration.

Bakersfield’s July 3 River Walk fireworks return with new partner for 250th anniversary (KBAK/KBFX)

Bakersfield’s July 3 River Walk fireworks return with new partner for 250th anniversary (KBAK/KBFX)

“We don’t have the 250th anniversary every year so that might be a reason for folks to come out, and of course the U.S. Two Fifty Tour coming as well,” Conroy said.

The U.S. 250 Tour is a coast-to-coast tour aiming to stop in all 50 states. Tour Director Tony Griffith said the tour features an all-star band with deep industry ties.

“We’ve got connections to all the Nashville guys, everybody from Chicago to Rascal Flatts and so we put together this all-star band of guys and so my family gets to be the house band for the tour,” Griffith said.

Griffith said visitors on July 3 can expect a setlist built around familiar songs and patriotic themes.

Bakersfield’s July 3 River Walk fireworks return with new partner for 250th anniversary (KBAK/KBFX)

Bakersfield’s July 3 River Walk fireworks return with new partner for 250th anniversary (KBAK/KBFX)

“So, we do a lot of hits, patriotic stuff. So, we’ll do stuff like American Soldier. We’ll do things like “Mayberry” by Rascal Flatts, “Boondocks.” A bunch of stuff people would recognize,” he said.

In addition to the concert, the U.S. 250 Tour will set up a Freedom Village at the park, offering displays focused on American history.

“There will be tents up there will be all kinds of displays. You know I think we’re going to have some reenactors come out,” Griffith said.

The night will end with fireworks at The Park at River Walk.

Bakersfield’s July 3 River Walk fireworks return with new partner for 250th anniversary (KBAK/KBFX)

Bakersfield’s July 3 River Walk fireworks return with new partner for 250th anniversary (KBAK/KBFX)

“If you love the country or you just like to have fun this will be the event for you. It’s really laid back it’s a lot of fun,” Griffith said.

For more information, visit us250tour.com/bakersfield-california.