6:30 PM

Graham County Fairgrounds New Soccer Fields

Part of Gila Valley 250

The JustServe Heart of Service Awards Presentation will recognize individuals and organizations whose volunteer service has strengthened communities throughout Graham County. The ceremony will begin at 6:30 p.m. on the stage at the new soccer fields at Graham County Fairgrounds and will honor those who exemplify the spirit of selfless service. The presentation will take place prior to the evening's live music and fireworks, making it a meaningful part of the Gila Valley 250 Celebration Day.

1:00 PM-3:00 PM

Splash Pad · 3883 W Ballpark St, Thatcher, AZ 85552

Part of Gila Valley 250

Join the Town of Thatcher and presenting sponsor Big Buckle Roofing for the Eastern Arizona College Splash Pad Party on Independence Day from 1 to 3 p.m. The Thatcher Fire Department will start the event off with a spray down. Enjoy a complimentary hot dog meal and cool off at the splash pad. Photo Courtesy of the Graham County Chamber of Commerce

6:00 PM-11:00 PM

Graham County Fairgrounds New Soccer Fields

Part of Gila Valley 250

Gather with friends, family, and neighbors for an evening of music, food, and community celebration at the Gila Valley 250 Music, Food Trucks, and Popsicles event. Presented by the Graham County Chamber of Commerce and hosted by Graham County, the festivities begin at 6 p.m. as food trucks open for dinner service and live music takes the main stage. At 7:30 p.m., the JustServe America250 Heart of Service Awards will recognize outstanding volunteers and organizations whose service has strengthened communities across Graham and Greenlee counties. At 7:45 p.m., enjoy a live performance by the ZGF Band, presented by Energy Transfer, featuring dance music, party favorites, and crowd-pleasing hits leading up to the fireworks show. The Freeport-McMoRan Fireworks Spectacular will begin at dusk, approximately 8:30 p.m., lighting up the sky in celebration of Independence Day and America's 250th anniversary. Following the fireworks finale, the ZGF Band will return to the stage for a live music and dancing encore, presented by Energy Transfer, keeping the celebration going late into the evening. Complimentary popsicles will be available while supplies last.

8:30 PM

Graham County Fairgrounds New Soccer Fields

Part of Gila Valley 250

Celebrate 250 years of freedom in the Gila Valley with fireworks. Enjoy vendors and free popsicles provided by the Gila Valley 250 Committee.

7:00 AM-9:30 AM

Gym

Part of Gila Valley 250

The Town of Thatcher 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament, presented by Big Buckle Roofing LLC, will be hosted at Thatcher High School Gym as part of the Gila Valley 250 Celebration. Teams may register through the Town of Thatcher RecDesk registration portal.

5:30 AM

Parade Route

Part of Gila Valley 250

The People’s Parade is a family-focused Independence Day tradition celebrating community participation in the Gila Valley 250 4th of July festivities. The parade features decorated bicycles, walking families, and informal community entries such as the Gila Valley Freedom Band. The event is intentionally non-commercial and non-political, with no organizational entries or political participation allowed. It is designed as a simple, open, and family-friendly celebration with no registration required, making it easy for children and families to participate safely and creatively. Photo Courtesy of David Bell, News Director at Double R Communications.

10:00 AM

Standard Parade Route

Part of Gila Valley 250

Celebrate Independence Day at the official Gila Valley 250 Fourth of July Parade in downtown Safford. This year's theme, "The Star-Spangled Banner," honors the song that has inspired generations of Americans while commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States. The parade begins at 10 a.m. on Main Street in Safford and will feature patriotic floats, community organizations, marching groups, public safety agencies, businesses, and local residents coming together to celebrate the nation's history, freedom, and spirit. Parade entries will compete for awards including Most Patriotic, Most Creative, Best in Theme, and Best Youth Entry. For parade applications and information, contact Mick Ruiz at mruiz@saffordaz.gov or (928) 432-4143, or Chris Gibbs at (928) 322-0704. Applications are due June 25, 2026. Photo Courtesy of David Bell, News Director for Double R Communications.