Folds of Honor Freedom Fest returns with a new viewing zone along riverfront

News On 6 is once again partnering with Folds of Honor FreedomFest presented by QuikTrip to help Oklahomans celebrate the Fourth of July, whether they plan to watch from the river or from their living room.

For those who prefer to stay in the air conditioning, the fireworks show will be broadcast live during the 9 p.m. news on the CW and streamed on News On 6’s digital platforms. Audio coverage will also be available on 92.9 The River.

New Fireworks Location Means Different Viewing Spots

The fireworks will not be launched from the 21st Street Bridge this year, which means long-time viewing spots will need to change. That includes Dream Keepers Park, which will not have any FreedomFest programming this year.

“We’re moving them further north into River West Festival Park,” Howell said. “So if you’ve traditionally gone to some other places further south, like 41st Street, you won’t be able to see the fireworks. You’re going to need to move further north.”

“Instead of Dream Keepers Park, we’re gonna be activating the east bank of the river Zink Lake more,” he said. “We’ve moved people to the Zink Lake viewing zone.”

Crews have cleared the area to create additional open space, and there will be food trucks and bouncy castles on both sides of the river.

Big Fun At River West Festival Park

The main celebration will take place at River West Festival Park, with live music, food vendors, and family-friendly entertainment beginning in the afternoon.

“The main event is River West Festival Park, and that’s where we’re gonna have the Monster Energy team BMX stunt team,” Howell said. “We’re gonna have tons of bouncy castles, lots of food trucks. We’ve got all sorts of the QuikTrip prize wheel. They’ve got a bouncy castle that’s like you run through milkshakes and QuikTrip fries and all sorts of fun stuff.”

News On 6’s LeAnne Taylor will emcee from the west bank stage ahead of the fireworks, which are scheduled to begin at 9:30 p.m.

Easier Traffic This Year

Traffic is expected to flow more smoothly this year. With nearby construction projects complete and the fireworks no longer being launched from the 21st Street Bridge, road closures will be minimal.

The bridge will remain open, allowing drivers to travel in both directions before and after the show.

Parking is cash only, with $20 and $10 options at designated lots. Event details, maps, and parking information are available at freedomfesttulsa.com.

“You can bring your own food and drink. No glass whatsoever in our park,” Howell added. “But we’ll have plenty of opportunities to visit the food trucks and lots of live entertainment.”