The Stanley Independence Day Celebration (SIDC) has concluded its 5th year of Free Fun and Fireworks for America’s 250th Birthday Celebration at Chapman Park on Saturday, July 4, 2026. The event kicked off at 3 p.m. with food and craft vendors opening, music on the main stage, and a bean bag tournament, it didn’t take long before the grounds were full of happy event goers. The non-profit SIDC provided free water, hotdogs, cotton candy, bike raffles, bouncy houses & obstacle courses, glitter tattoos, ice cream, music, and fireworks for everyone of all ages to enjoy. From kids, to teens, to adults along with our elderly, there were smiles on everyone’s faces! A truly unifying community event no matter the age! Many event goers were dressed for the occasion in their patriotic attire, some from head to toe.
There were 72 baskets raffled off as well as 27 meat raffles as a couple of the main fundraisers the SIDC does. The SIDC gave away 26 bicycles with helmets to the kids, all of which were donated by various community members and businesses. The SIDC debuted the 2027 $100 Independence Day raffle ticket that allows them to pay for the Fireworks. The VFW/Legion also hosted a 50/50 raffle, with Blayke Sharp winning. Our local HGT Band took the main stage at 6pm and entertained the crowd for hours before the Stanley Fire Department and VFW did the flag lowering and folding ceremonies.
After the Flag folding ceremonies, everyone gathered around Chapman Lake for the Fireworks show, however, before that started in true patriotic form, the VFW/Legion presented the colors and did the 21-gun salute. The patriotic music that coincided with the fireworks show was available from a FM car radio for their listening pleasure.
The SIDC committee would like to thank all the sponsors, small and large, along with all the volunteers that help make this event possible.