PHOTO GALLERY: Salina Celebrates Independence Day

It started with a patriotic set of songs with the Salina Municipal Band, and it ended with a spectacular fireworks display. In between, Bill Fekas prepared 4,700 hotdogs.

From fun in the park, to food, fellowship, and fireworks, Salina let freedom ring on Tuesday.

For the 42nd year in a row Salina celebrated an old fashioned 4th of July in the park. Oakdale Park was the place to be for an afternoon of fun and gamesĀ at the Parks and Recreation Department’s 42nd annual Play Day in the Park.

It turned out to be a beautiful day for old fashioned games and activities like sack races, tug of war, tic tac toe, parachute, and much more. There was also face painting for the kids.

A favorite for many was the free food. Free hot dogs, watermelon, ice cream, and soft drinks were served.

Play Day in the Park also featured continuous live entertainment on the Eric Stein Stage. The Salina Municipal Band got things started, and then everything from jugglers to dancers and twirlers entertained.

The fun moved in the evening to the East Crawford Recreation Area for the Skyfire fireworks spectacular. Salina favorites the Soul Preachers performed a free concert prior to the fireworks show.

Back in 2009 most fireworks became legal again in Salina. The sale, storage, and discharge of fireworks was prohibited in Salina beginning in December of 1965. In 1987 the ban was partially lifted, and things like snakes, poppers, and smoke devices were allowed. In 1981 Saline County also banned fireworks. That ban was rescinded in 2009.

Many people took advantage of great weather both Monday and Tuesday nights. Numerous fireworks could be heard, and seen lighting up the sky both nights.

Family and friends gathered on lawns and in neighborhoods throughout town enjoying fellowship, fun, and fireworks.

(click photos to enlarge)