2024 Independence Day Celebration

St. Helens Independence Day events are being hosted in McCormick Park this July 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This year’s theme is “Tour of Duty.” Events are organized thanks to local community groups and volunteers in honor of Independence Day and local veterans.

This year’s schedule includes:

• Starting at 10 a.m.: Veterans of Columbia County Photo Gallery 
• 11 a.m.: Freedom Walk (Registration at 10:30 a.m.)
• Noon: Highway 30 Cruisers
• Noon to 1 p.m.: Prizes for patriotic kids, pets, and cosplay characters of 1776
• 1:15 p.m. Dedication of Stone Service Flag Pedestals at Veteran's Memorial with Gene Hester
• 1:30 p.m.: American Legion & VFW Flag Raising Ceremony, National Anthem, and Speakers
• 2 p.m.: “Let Freedom Bells Ring” Ceremony and George Washington with signing the Declaration of Independence
• 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.: Birthday Cake for America and Larry Jackson Big River Big Band featuring Ellie Wieneke

Fireworks

There will be no fireworks on the St. Helens Riverfront this year to alleviate congestion in the Riverfront District due to construction. Columbia View Park and the St. Helens Riverfront Property are both under construction and are not available to use for tailgating or as a gathering place to watch bands or view fireworks. The St. Helens City Council plans to host fireworks again in 2025 when current Riverfront District construction is complete. Funding allocated for the 2024 fireworks show will be carried over to help pay for the 2025 fireworks show. Due to permit regulations, safety protocols, and sufficient space needed to host large-scale fireworks displays, the City does not have an alternative location to host a fireworks show this year.