Surprise plans 26th annual July 4 bash

Diane Arthur, Surprise public information officer, submitted this information on upcoming festivities.

Come celebrate the Fourth of July with Surprise, where you can enjoy live entertainment, great food and a 20-minute fireworks show.

The city's 26th annual Fourth of July Celebration is so big we will spread the fun to a variety of venues at the Surprise Recreation Campus. There will be free events at the 8 - Acre Park and Community Park, and paid ticketed events at the Aquatic Center and at Surprise Stadium.

• Surprise Stadium ticketed event, 6-8:30 p.m., 15960 N. Bullard Ave.

This year's events will include a new element in Surprise Stadium, where participants can enjoy more activities than ever before. Families can beat the summer heat in the water zone featuring slip n' slides, water slides and a dunk tank. There will be an interactive kid zone with a radar pitch, hitting tunnel, clowns and magicians. Bring your blankets, stretch out on the stadium grass and enjoy live music by the Groove Merchants, and get a perfect seat for the fireworks show. Concession stands will be offering a variety of food and ice-cold beverages, including $1 hot dogs, Cokes, peanuts, popcorn and popsicles. Tickets on sale now are $2 for kids 17 and under, and $5 for adults. Day-of-event tickets will be available: $5 for kids 17 and under, $10 for adults. Space is limited, so be sure to purchase your tickets early.

• Surprise Aquatic Center ticketed event, 5-9 p.m., 15831 N. Bullard Ave.

Enjoy the fireworks poolside at the Surprise Aquatic Center. Surprise residents may purchase tickets for an evening filled with games, prizes, music and fireworks. Tickets go on sale June 27 and are $6, which includes admission and a meal (hot dog, soda and chips). Space is limited.

• Surprise Community Park free family fun, 6-8:30 p.m.

The Surprise Recreation Campus is at 15850 N. Bullard Ave., about 2 miles west of Grand Avenue between Bell and Greenway Roads. For more information, call the Community and Recreation Services Department at 623-222-2000 or visit www.supriseaz.com.