Freedom and fireworks: Flagler turns out for Independence Day celebrations

Locals came out to Freedom Fest and the city of Palm Coast's annual fireworks show on Saturday, July 3.

Flagler Broadcasting's Freedom Fest event at the Flagler Executive Airport featured a fly-by parade and static displays of vintage and modern military aircraft, with some adventurous visitors opting for rides on a Huey, Cobra or a T-6 Texan.

Aircraft at the event included a Tico Belle C-47 World War II troop/cargo aircraft, a B-25 Mitchell World War II bomber, a BT-13 Valiant World War II basic trainer, a T-6 Texan World War II advanced trainer, a Florida Army National Guard CH-47 Chinook heavy-lift helicopter, a UH-1 Iroquois “Huey,” an AH-1 Cobra attack helicopter and many others.

The event resumed for 2021 after being cancelled due to COVID-19 in 2020.

Evening performances included Eli Mosley, “Soul Fire Mo-Town” and the “Slippery When Wet” Bon Jovi tribute band.

Opening ceremonies featured the singing of God Bless America and the National Anthem by  jazz artist Linda Cole, and a welcome from airport Director Roy Sieger and the Board of County Commissioners. 

After Freedom Fest, visitors headed to Central Park in Town Center for the city of Palm Coast's fireworks show, featuring a 20-minute pyrotechnic show by Santore, with more than 1,000 shells.