Firefighters Freedom Festival set for July 4 holiday

MADISON COUNTY, Tenn. — If you’re still looking for Fourth of July plans, thousands are set to flock to Madison County on Monday for the third annual Firefighters Freedom Festival.

Preparations were underway Friday at McKellar-Sipes Regional Airport. Organizers say this year’s festival will feature more vendors, activities and three live bands.

Madison County Fire Chief Eric Turner says safety is their No. 1 priority.

“Our whole goal in this is to make it a safe environment,” Chief Turner said. “Every year, we respond to multiple fires and multiple injuries, people using consumer-grade fireworks, so we invite them to come and see a professionally shot show where it’s done in a safe manner.”

The festivities are set to begin at 3 p.m. Monday and run until about 10:30 p.m.

Festival goers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets and picnic items. However, alcohol and personal grills are not allowed.