Independence Day fireworks show returns to Pickwick State Park; Saltillo hosting July 4 celebration

Hardin County is celebrating Independence Day with a fireworks display, beginning at 9 p.m. on Sunday, July 4.
After a hiatus last year due to the pandemic, fireworks will again be shot from the Pickwick Landing State Park sandy beach. In addition to the annual fireworks show, Hardin County Convention and Visitors Bureau is broadcasting live with WKWX beginning at 7 p.m. with patriotic music and special guests’ interviews.
“We are excited about continuing our rich Fourth of July tradition and invite all locals and visitors to celebrate with us at Pickwick Landing State Park”, said Hardin County Tourism Director Beth Pippin.
Organizers describe the lake and surrounding areas as ideal locations for spectators.
“We can’t thank Pickwick Landing State Park enough for their partnership allowing us to put on this wonderful show,” said Pippin.
Hardin County Convention and Visitors Bureau again contracted with High-Tech Special Effects Inc. to stage the fireworks show.
“We try to grow the ‘oohhs and ahhhhs’ each year,” said Pippin, “and this year’s show is no different. We are adding more bang and more special effects for a $15,000 spectacular display.”
In addition to the 9 p.m. show, the Friends of Pickwick Landing State Park organization is hosting all day fun around the Lodge and Circle Beach area. Food and craft vendors will be set up as well as ranger-led activities.
“Spectators are encouraged to be safe and act responsible,” said Pickwick Landing State Park manager Andy Wright. “First and foremost, obey the law. Law enforcement will be present on land and water. Park rangers, TWRA, TVA, THP, and the Hardin County Sheriff’s Department will be assisting with traffic and enforcing the law.”
Organizers noted that outside the park, it will be important to maintain good traffic flow to allow emergency traffic through. Stopping or blocking either lane of traffic on the dam, levee, or roadway will not be permitted. Parking will be allowed on the south, lake side of the levee and prohibited on the north.
As a reminder, Tenn. 128 is under construction. Post-event traffic flow will be slowed and possibly limited for a short time at the construction traffic light to allow northbound traffic to disperse.
Inside the park, spectators can enjoy views from around the Inn area, circle beach, from the golf course hillside bank, the playground and shelter one hillside bank areas. Traffic in and out of the circle will be closed to all but emergency traffic beginning at 6 p.m. Sandy Beach will be closed to spectators day, as will the new dog park.
“We want everyone to have a great holiday and enjoy your time in the park,” said Wright. “It’s the biggest summer family event celebrating our nation. Enjoy and be safe.”
Looking for more Hardin County holiday fun but can’t make the show in Pickwick? The City of Saltillo has a fireworks show planned at the riverbank on July 4 at dark.