Get ready for fireworks to explode in the sky for the United States of America’s 250th birthday.
This year, people around the Coastal Bend and the country will be celebrating Fourth of July in multiple ways. Not sure what to do this holiday? Here are multiple events happening in the Corpus Christi area to celebrate.
What makes this July 4 different?
While the original events in 1776 took place more than 1,000 miles away on the Atlantic coast, the story of the United States’ growth, defense and cultural evolution is woven deeply into the Coastal Bend.
In 1845, President Zachary Taylor positioned half of the entire U.S. Army at Camp Marcy in Corpus Christi. The location is now identified by a historical marker at Artesian Park at 800 N. Chaparral St.
That same year, the Old Bayview Cemetery on Ramirez Street was established. It is the home of numerous soldiers from the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, the Civil War, the Spanish-American War and regular citizens.
The history of the Coastal Bend adds unique layers to the narrative of American expansion and identity. Before Texas achieved statehood, the area was a convergence point of Spanish, Mexican and Indigenous cultures.
Where to celebrate
Alice’s Fourth of July Celebration
Hooks Red, White and Boom
Kingsville’s Fourth of July Celebration
250th Birthday Bash in Ingleside
Fourth of July at Trinity Community Church
Palmilla Beach Fourth of July Concert
Mayor’s Fourth of July Big Bang Fireworks Show
What makes celebrating July 4 in Corpus Christi uniquely American?
The Coastal Bend is backdropped by major symbols of national defense and coastal heritage.
Corpus Christi is a military city, home to the Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, which has trained generations of naval aviators. The Naval Air Station Kingsville is just 40 minutes south of the Sparkling City by the Sea.
Nearly every block is home to veterans, active-duty members and military families.
Not every city in America has the luxury of being minutes away from a scenic ocean view.
Families are able to take a stroll along the seawall, spend the day out on North Padre Island or catch a game at Whataburger Field in Corpus Christi.
Plan your July 4 in Corpus Christi
It may be too early to predict the weather for the July holiday, but people who live in Corpus Christi know it will be hot and humid.
Be sure to wear loose clothing and light colors, as well as sun protection gear such as hats, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Fireworks are strictly prohibited in Corpus Christi and could result in fines of up to $2,000 for each opened package of fireworks.
People who witness illegal fireworks activity may report it by calling 361-886-COPS (2677). People should only call 911 for emergencies, not to report complaints about fireworks.
Corpus Christi’s most iconic person: Selena
You can’t mention Corpus Christi without immediately thinking of Tejano legend Selena.
The Queen of Tejano moved to Corpus Christi in 1982 and became an icon with her music and fashion.
Her album “Live!” won Best Mexican/American Album at the 1994 Grammy Awards, becoming the first recording by a female Tejano artist to do so.
On March 31, 1995, Selena was shot and killed by Yolanda Saldívar, her friend and former manager of her Selena Etc. boutiques. Saldívar was convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison with a possible parole after 30 years.
After her death, Selena’s fifth album, “Dreaming of You,” debuted atop the Billboard 200, making her the first Latino artist to accomplish this feat.
A memorial statue of Selena, Mirador de la Flor, is located downtown in a gazebo along the Corpus Christi shoreline. People can also visit the Selena Museum at 5410 Leopard St., see her star on the Texas Walk of Fame at Executive Surf Club at 300 N. Water St., admire countless murals of her and enjoy a meal at her favorite eatery from back in the day, Hi-Ho Restaurant at 3703 Morgan Ave.
John Oliva covers entertainment and community news in South Texas. Have a story idea? Contact him at john.oliva@caller.com.
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This article originally appeared on Corpus Christi Caller Times: How Corpus Christi will celebrate America’s 250th birthday
Reporting by John Oliva, Corpus Christi Caller Times / Corpus Christi Caller Times
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By John Oliva, Corpus Christi Caller Times | USA TODAY Network
