As the United States approaches its 250th birthday, communities across the country are preparing for large-scale celebrations and Erie is no exception. With festivities stretching across several days, the holiday is shaping up to be a weeklong celebration, with one of the biggest events set to take place along the city’s Bayfront.
On July 3, crowds are expected to gather at Dobbins Landing and Liberty Park for an evening of music and fireworks as part of an event called “Light and Liberty Over Lake Erie.” City officials anticipate a strong turnout, making it one of the busiest holiday attractions in the region.
The Rebich Investments Amphitheater will host a concert featuring well-known acts Buckcherry and The Marshall Tucker Band, offering live entertainment leading up to the night’s main event. Following the concert, attendees will be treated to an extended fireworks display, which organizers say will include up to seven additional minutes of pyrotechnics compared to a typical show.
City Special Events Coordinator Hunter Lytle said the celebration is designed to be both memorable and accessible, encouraging residents and visitors not to be discouraged by concerns about crowds or parking.
To help ease transportation challenges, several downtown parking garages will offer free parking during the event. Available locations include garages at 8th and French streets, 7th and Peach streets, and 5th and Peach streets.
In addition, complimentary EMTA shuttle services will be running from 8:00 p.m. until midnight. Shuttle pick-up and drop-off locations include Perry Square, the Lincoln Park-N-Ride, and the Intermodal Transportation Center, providing convenient options for those traveling to and from the Bayfront.