From the Town of Lexington to the Town of Gilbert, and across many other Midlands areas, locals celebrated an extra momentous Fourth of July this past weekend. 

The 250th celebration of America's independence was on the hearts of so many Lexington County locals, including those in attendance at the 250th Independence Day Celebration in Lexington and the Lexington County Peach Festival in Gilbert. 

250th Independence Day Celebration in Lexington

The Town of Lexington held its 250th Independence Day Celebration on Friday, July 3, at the Icehouse Amphitheater. The event included historical reenactments organized in partnership with the Lexington County 250th Commission.

The evening began at 6 p.m. by stepping back into the Revolutionary era with Historian Dean Hunt who shared key American Revolution events that took place in Lexington County.

The Actors’ Theatre presented a reading of the South Carolina’s Declaration of Separation. This reading featured Captain Henry Felder and Revolutionary War heroine Rebecca Motte. Robert Ryal, a public historian storyteller and history interpreter, represented a historic minister who explained the rationale for the independence movement.

At 7 p.m., the Independence Day Celebration Concert began. The orchestra featured members of the Lexington Community Band. They played 12 songs prior to the fireworks display. The concert began with the Star-Spangled Banner and the Military Escort. Paul Northen, John Immerso and Roger Simpson conducted several of the songs performed by the orchestra. A massive Fireworks Show began at 9 p.m. and was perfectly synchronized to a patriotic music broadcast on 93.1 FM The Lake. Over 10 food trucks and vendors were present selling a variety of choices of cold beverages and meals. The event was well attended by hundreds of people.

Lexington County Peach Festival in Gilbert

The 66th Lexington County July 4th Peach Festival was well attended in spite of the hot weather. Some people left their trucks overnight on the side of the road facing the parade route so they could have a good view.

This year, over 80 volunteers jumped in to help get the festival going on the 4th of July after it was originally canceled. They did a great job and everything went smoothly.

After the parade, everyone headed to Rickard Circle to check out the many vendors and food trucks. Gilbert Scouts Troop 60 held their annual Car Show at Gilbert Middle School. Five bands performed throughout the day. At 9:30 p.m., the awesome fireworks display began.

It was a family-orientated day with lots of fun for everyone in Gilbert at the 66th Annual Peach Festival.