Family Fun for the Fourth!

An Independence Day celebration in the best Lake Wales tradition is on tap this week as the City of Lake Wales rolls out a big effort to "bring out the community," according to City Recreation Coordinator Shay Irvis. Food, music, family fun and fireworks are all part of the celebration.

The activities will begin in earnest at 3:00 with a host of "kid-friendly" games, according to Irvis. The celebration will conclude with a huge display of fireworks beginning at 9:00.

"We'll have lots of activities, all free, except for the food," Irvis said in describing plans for the evening. "There will be food trucks." The event will take place in Lake Wailes Park near the ellipse and city pier.

Among the attractions and fun will be train rides, a watermelon-eating contest, inflatable games including a "boot camp" obstacle course and an "axe" throwing game, and a contest for the best-dressed, most patriotic outfit. The Lake Wales Police Department K-9 team will also exhibit their highly-trained service animals.

Live music will be provided during the event by "I-4 North." Vendors will offer a variety of goods ranging from art to personal services.