Cookouts, lake trips, sparklers — we all have childhood memories of the Fourth of July. It’s a holiday that gives families a whole day to have plenty of summertime fun together.
But this is no ordinary Fourth of July. This is one of those rare years that blesses us with a glorious gift of a three day weekend to pack in maximum fun. Lucky for you, our sister publication Little Rock Family rounded up a list of the best family-friendly activities in central Arkansas, and we picked a few of our favorites.
Click here to see more Independence Day celebrations in central Arkansas.
17th Annual 4th of July Family Celebration at Sherwood Forest: Munch on free hot dogs (while they last!), and enjoy entertainment, a kids zone, and fireworks display at 9 p.m. Free shuttle service from Sylvan Hills High School. 6-9 p.m. July 4. For info: (501) 833-0476, CityOfSherwood.net. FREE!
Fun on the Fourth at Pinnacle Mountain State Park: Join park interpreters in the West Summit area for a day full of wet and wild games, including tug-of-water, water balloon volleyball, and relay races. Contact the park for a detailed schedule of events. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. July 4. For info: (501) 868-5806, ArkansasStateParks.com/PinnacleMountain. FREE!
July 4th at Wild River Country: Splash and play on the Fourth of July. Wild River Country honors active duty or veterans with free admission with a valid ID. One free ticket per Armed force member. Family members receive $5 off admission with dependent ID. Park hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. July 4. For info: (501) 753-8600, WildRiverCountry.com.
July 4th Fun and Games Day at Petit Jean State Park: Join the park staff for a celebration of our nation’s birthday! Numerous family-oriented activities include a bicycle parade, contests and water balloon games. Contact the park for a schedule. 8 a.m.-8 p.m. July 4. For info: (501) 727-5441,PetitJeanStatePark.com. FREE!
July 4th Island Fest at DeGray Lake Resort State Park: Park guests and community members enjoy traditional Independence Day games and activities, including a watermelon eating contest, kayak race, basketball shooting, water balloon games, lawn bowling, crafts, demonstrations and more. Activities culminate for those 12 and under with an Underwater Treasure Hunt in the lodge pool. The traditional fireworks show lights up the night sky over the lake after dark. The cost is $10 and includes a meal and finisher’s medal. Costume contest to follow the run. 9 a.m.-10 p.m. July 4. For info: (501) 865-5810, DeGray.com. FREE!
Maumelle 4th Fest at Lake Willastein Park: Celebrate Independence Day in traditional Maumelle style! The 4th of July Parade begins at 4:30 p.m., the Cardboard Boat races begins shortly after at 5:30 p.m. (register here), and tons of games, music and fun. The evening culminates with a spectacular fireworks show! For info: 851-6990, MaumelleParksAndRec.com. FREE!
July 4th Children’s Bicycle & Wagon Parade in Downtown Little Rock: Join your neighbors in a parade of decorated bicycles and wagons. The march begins at Spring & 20th Streets and ends at the Governor’s Mansion where prizes are awarded to the best decorated bicycles and wagons! 10 a.m. July 4. For info: LR-DNA.com. FREE!