The Spirit of Kansas Festival, including the 21st year of the fireworks display, is set for July 4 at Lake Shawnee.
We are excited for this year’s 4th of July celebration and we hope you are too. Here are a few things to know before you go out to the lake Tuesday afternoon:
Roads into the lake will be closed at 8 p.m., so if you want to watch the fireworks you should arrive before that time. Topeka Metro buses will be running at 6 p.m. from Rueger Sports Complex, 2801 S. Kansas Ave., to Lake Shawnee. Scouts from the Jayhawk Area Council will direct traffic for those who drive their own vehicles to the lake. There will also be signs to mark free parking areas.
Around 15,000 people are expected to watch the fireworks show in the lake area, so please be patient and follow directions when you leave the show. In general, those on the east side of the lake will be directed to the east to Croco Road to exit the lake area and those on the west side will be directed to exit the lake area to the west.
It will be hot out so drink plenty of liquids and find a shady spot to hang out and enjoy the festivities.
Below is a full list of events and times for this year’s celebration!
Lake Shawnee Golf Tournament – 8 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. shotgun starts
Car show – 9 a.m. (awards at 2:30 p.m.) Shelters 4 and 5 west of Reynolds Lodge
Food and Arts & Crafts Vendors – 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Next to the Blues Festival
Spirit of Kansas Blues Festival – 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Reynolds Lodge
Water Ski Show (sponsored by Shawnee Boat and Ski Club) – 6:30 p.m.-7:45 p.m.
Spirit of Kansas Fireworks Display – 10 p.m.
