–The West Union Lions Club is excited to announce a
change in the date for the yearly anticipated Adams County Freedom Festival and
fireworks. Originally scheduled for June 29, 2024, the festival will now take place on August
31, 2024, during Labor Day weekend at the Adams County Fairgrounds.
A Tradition of Celebration and Community
The Adams County Freedom Festival, rooted in a rich history of community celebration,
has been a staple event hosted by the West Union Lions Club. For many years prior to
1990’s, the club organized 4th of July fireworks in Adams County. Due to evolving
regulations and safety protocols surrounding fireworks, the event evolved into the Dare
Horseshow and Fireworks in 1994, supporting D.A.R.E. in Adams County. Reclaimed by the
West Union Lions Club and renamed the Adams County Freedom Festival in 2014, this
event is traditionally held on the last Saturday of June. The festival is more than just a 4th of
July celebration; it embodies the values of the Lions Club—Integrity, Respect, Excellence,
and Teamwork. These values resonate with the spirit of old-fashioned American patriotism
and community service, making the festival a perfect occasion for all to celebrate at any
time of the year.
Reasons for the Date Change
Several factors influenced the decision to move the festival to August 31, 2024. Late June
and early July are particularly busy times in Adams County, with numerous events leading
up to the county fair on July 6th. Additionally, the proximity of June 29th to the 4th of July
results in higher costs and limited availability of fireworks due to high demand.
Furthermore, the West Union Lions Club’s members are actively involved in multiple
organizations, many of which are extremely busy during this period.
Benefits of the New Date
The new date offers several advantages. There are no other major community events
scheduled in Adams County for Labor Day weekend, allowing the festival to stand out. With
festivities starting in the early afternoon and culminating in a spectacular 15 minute+
fireworks display at dusk; the festival promises a full day of enjoyment for all attendees. As
schools will have been in session for a few weeks, this event provides families with an ideal
opportunity to enjoy a fun-filled Saturday marking the end of summer.
Unchanged Aspects
Despite the date change, the festival will maintain its key features. Admission remains $5
per carload or $2 per person for walk-ins, with children under 2 admitted free. Attendees
can still look forward to a variety of food vendors, musical entertainment, and family friendly activities, with plans to expand this year’s offerings. The West Union Lions Club is
also seeking participation from other community organizations, such as 4H clubs and
scouting units, to run game booths or assist with the event, potentially earning community
service hours or fundraising opportunities.
“A lot of thought has gone into moving the festival this year, and we feel that this will be a
great choice for this year,” said Amy Sheeley, President of the West Union Lions Club.
“While we are only planning on moving it for this year currently, depending on how
successful the event is this August, we might consider moving it there permanently moving
forward.”
For more information or to volunteer, please message us on Facebook at
https://www.facebook.com/acfreedomfestival or email us wulionsclub@gmail.com
Please also remember to join us for the annual Adams County 4th of July parade. Lineup
starts and 9am and the parade begins at 10 am. There is no cost or pre registration more
information can be found at the West Union Lions Club Facebook Page.
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