7/4 10AM Parade, 7PM Concert
It’s an almost decade-long tradition.
During the day, it’s Lakewood’s massive 4th of July Parade, headlined by possibly the last for a while featuring perennial fave Dennis Kucinich, stepping off at 10:00 AM at Kenneth and Lake Avenue and continues east on Lake Avenue to Lakewood Park. After the parade, festivities will continue in Lakewood Park with games, food, activities and information provided by several of Lakewood’s not-for-profit organizations.
But the real action begins at 7PM when the Lakewood Project kicks off an almost 3-hour set at Lakewood par for an estimated crowd of 20,000, showcasing their departing seniors (you have to be a Lakewood High student to play), and welcoming the incoming freshmen. The acclaimed rock orchestra with full string section, full rock band and a double quartet of electric violins and cellos will have you cheering for freedom as they galvanize young classical musicians with rock versions of classical tunes (Bach’s Toccata & Fugue, Beethoven’s 5th, Copeland’s Hoedown) and classical versions of rock tunes (Baba O’Riley, Tom Sawyer, Stairway To Heaven).
It all builds up to one of the region’s finest fireworks displays at dusk, from a town that finds a way to celebrate large, even when municipalities have been cutting back on their displays. Because of the proximity of Lake Erie, revelers get close-in viewing that remains safe and thrilling. The finale is not to be missed!
Best of all, the entire day is FREE! Watch the video above from 2010 for a taste.
Check the complete Summer Band Concert schedule here.