By By MaryClaire Foster
Unlike other holidays, the Fourth of July is known for its laid back style, allowing Americans to sit back, relax and enjoy themselves and their freedoms.
This also means more casual and usually cost effective gatherings. Often Independence Day is celebrated with not only friends and family, but fellow Americans who have also gathered to spend time at the state park or take in the community fireworks show.
For those in Atmore and the surrounding areas wanting to grill out or cool off, Little River State Forest, Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve and area parks offer multiple activities to fill your holiday with fun.
Guests at Little River can spend time on the 25-acre lake swimming or rent a boat or canoe. Pedal boats can be rented for $5 an hour, John boats for $5 for four hours and $10 for 8 hours and canoes are $5 for four hours and $10 for 8 hours. Those not wanting to be on the water can camp out, rent a pavilion, picnic or hike.
Magnolia Branch offers similar amenities, but one of the most popular and not offered at Little River is tubing in the creek.
Whether you have spent the day soaking up sun or sinking your teeth into ribs, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians 9th annual fireworks show is an exciting and free ending to the day. This year the show will be held at the Rodeo Arena and begins at 9 p.m. Spectators can tune into WNSI radio on 105.9 FM to catch the show’s soundtrack, which will feature a variety of musical styles with a patriotic theme.
Mandy Peebles, events coordinator for PCI, said the event is something many people look forward to every year. Annual attendance is estimated in the thousands.
Peebles said this year will be different from years past as the stage show will not be held. An alternative for those looking for live entertainment and are 21 years of age and older can catch “Az Izz” at the Wind Creek Casino and Hotel’s The Sound afterwards.