The Patriotic Spectacular, held each Independence Day weekend in Jacksonville, is a special event to honor the military heroes that call central Arkansas home. This year’s celebration, “We Will Stand”, will take place on Friday, July 1. The event, in its 10th year, provides an evening of entertainment and fireworks for the whole family.

The Patriotic Spectacular will include a Kids Fun Area, sponsored by the A & P Commission and local businesses. Radio Disney will provide music, dancing, face painting and inflatables from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The featured entertainer of the event, country/pop musician Candy Coburn, will take the stage at 8 p.m. Coburn has recently released a new CD entitled Lucky, and has been touring on behalf of the Susan G. Komen Foundation. The proceeds from her single “Pink Warrior” all go towards the foundation to help fight breast cancer. Breast cancer survivors and their families will be recognized during a special time in Candy’s show.  The survivors will join Candy on stage during the “Pink Warrior” song.  If you are a breast cancer survivor, you are invited for this time of recognition.

The Gloryland Pastors Choir will also be on hand to share their music at the Patriotic Spectacular. This gospel choir, led by Pastor Cedric Hayes, began performing together in 2008. They were national regional finalists in the 2009 Verizon Wireless “How Sweet the Sound” choir competition, and in 2012 they will compete in the 7th World Choir Olympic Competition in Cincinnati, Ohio.  Other local performers will include Angie Umflett, Huff ‘n Puff Dance Company, Price Crew, New Beginning Praise Dancers, and Alan and Jerry.

At 7:30 p.m. the patriotic presentation will begin with outstanding community servants and residents being recognized as the “Community Hero” and “I Have a Dream” awards are presented.  A salute to our Armed Forces and Military Fallen Heroes by the Patriot Singers and the Patriot Guard and Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Riders will also be included in the program. The night ends with the fireworks finale at 9 p.m.

Event coordinator, Angie Mitchell, said, “The Patriotic Spectacular is a chance for people from across central Arkansas to celebrate Independence Day by honoring the people who serve our country throughout the year.”

“July 4th is so special to the military families that call Jacksonville home, and it is exciting to have so many people visit our city on this holiday. A majority of the attendees are from outside of Jacksonville, our sisters and brothers from the surrounding cities” added Mitchell.

The Patriotic Spectacular is held at Jan Crow Stadium at Jacksonville High School, located at 2400 Linda Lane, and admission is free.  Lawn chairs or blankets are recommended for lawn seating, if stadium seating is full.  In case of rain, we will start when rain lets up. The fireworks display will still be held on the JHS football field, even if raining. Concessions will be available through the Jacksonville High School Booster Club and local venders, with proceeds benefitting the JHS Booster Club and Boys and Girls Club of Jacksonville.