Independence Day is celebrated best in the deep dark hills of Harlan County. The way that our fireworks light up on the side of our gorgeous Appalachian mountains with explosions of color is truly unmatched. From our Fourth of July parade to more intimate family gatherings, there is something out there for everyone here to have the best holiday celebrations.
- Listen to some of the best voices in Harlan County, live! We have some great performances planned for the Fourth Fest in downtown Harlan. Whether you’re participating in the parade or having an at home gathering, you should stop by and give it a listen. Some of our performers include Brooklyn Collins, Laci Deaton and Co, DM & the 1601s, Shiloh Turner, and TBA the Band!
- Watch or participate in Harlan’s Fourth of July Parade. If you’re thinking about participating in the parade, there are a number of different cash prizes that you and your group could win! In fact, the grand prize is $500! If you’d rather watch the parade, our participants go above and beyond each year to put on an amazing show you don’t want to miss!!
- Watch the fireworks. Every year, thousands of Harlan Countians gather to watch the firework show in downtown Harlan. Watch the sky light up with colors behind our beautiful mountains. This is the perfect occasion to bring your family and friends! While you’re watching the fireworks be sure to run by Fourth Fest in downtown Harlan and grab some food and beverages from our vendors!
- Cook out at Kingdom Come State Park. From paddle boats to minigolf and from trails to overlooks, Kingdom Come State Park truly has something for everyone. Bring your family and friends to one of the various shelters and have a cookout to remember! Take some of your own controlled fireworks but be sure to clean up after yourself!
- Attend Cumberland’s Fourth of July Festival. For some family fun and a good time, you will not want to miss out on Cumberland’s Fourth of July Festival. Between the parade, vendors, and fireworks, this is a fantastic way to spend time with family on the holiday!
- Visit the vendors and food trucks at Fourth Fest. While you are in downtown Harlan for Fourth Fest, be sure to visit with our vendors and food trucks. You will find anything from handmade goods, to kids toys, clothing, as well as BBQ, deep fried treats, ice cold beverages, and funnel cakes!
- Watch the Lynch Fourth of July Parade. For some patriotic fun, be sure to head out to watch the parade. Between numerous amazing participants and creative floats, you will not be disappointed. This would be especially good for those who are staying nearby to Kingdom Come State Park, as you could easily fit two fun filled adventures into the day!
- Spectate or participate in Evarts’ Fourth of July Festival. This is a fantastic way to kick off the holiday. Start the day out with the Fourth of July Parade and end it by watching fireworks light up the night sky. Between amazing floats, fireworks, and more, you will definitely want to check this out!
- Go to Martin’s Fork Lake. Martin’s Fork is one of the only man made lakes in Harlan, and is also one of the best places to spend your 4th. There are so many options for what to do for some fun at the lake. You could always use some sparklers, and have a cookout at the grills, or just have a nice time fishing on the bank. No matter what you do, it will be a good time, and you can always leave at dark and go check out one of our many 4th firework shows!
- Participate in the Fourth Fest 5k. Compete for various prizes in your age division against some Harlan County’s fastest folks! This is a great opportunity to kick off your morning feeling energized and possibly winning some awards!!
