*All events are held at Centennial Park, 1255 Warrior Lane, unless otherwise noted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is new or different for 2026?
Check back closer to the event!
Where are roads closed?
- 8:30 a.m.-about noon: SE Westown Parkway from SE Florence Drive west to SE L.A. Grant Parkway for parade line-up
- 9:45 a.m.-about noon: SE L.A. Grant Parkway from SE Westown Parkway north to SE University Avenue; SE Ashworth Drive north and west from SE University Avenue to the SE Ashworth Drive/Warrior Lane roundabout
- 8:30 p.m.-10 p.m.: SE University Avenue from S. Warrior Lane east to SE Waddell Way and S. Warrior Lane from SE University Avenue north to SE Park Road will be closed for the fireworks display.
Can I buy tickets or an armband for inflatables at the event?
Yes. Tickets and wristbands will be for sale at the event for cash purchase starting at noon. Armband sales will close at 7 p.m. and ticket sales will close at 7:30 p.m. Buying an armband online during presale enables you to use a credit card and to avoid the longer line at the event.
What kind of inflatables will there be?
We request a variety of inflatables from bounce houses to obstacle courses that are suitable for people of all ages. Some have age limits and are designed for young children.
Where can I park?
Limited parking will be available on Park Road. The circle drive through Centennial Park will be closed for vendors and activities. There is a gravel/grass lot by the red covered bridge on the southeast corner of the park, accessible from University Avenue. Parking is also available at the school and on side streets where allowed. Do not park in no-parking zones.
Parking is not allowed by the enclosed shelter in the southwest corner of the park to keep the area clear for lighting the firework display.
What is the parade route?
The parade will go up L.A. Grant Parkway from SE Westown Parkway, past Centennial Park as the road turns into SE Ashworth Drive and ends by the Waukee Middle School. For everyone's safety, stay behind the spray-painted white line as you cheer and catch candy. Here's a map.
There will be road closures that morning as the parade participants line up and during the parade at SE Westown Parkway and L.A. Grant Parkway as well as SE University and Ashworth Drive.
What can I bring to Centennial Park?
Help keep our park clean by taking home any item you bring into the park and putting trash in the designated bins. Do not leave sparklers, cans, wrappers or other items in the grass; they can be hazards for children, pets, wildlife and lawn mowers.
- Chairs, blankets and strollers are welcome. Do not enter the roped off landing area for the skydivers.
- There will not be a beer garden or bar at the event. Attendees may bring canned beer or wine if they are 21 or older. No glass containers or liquor. Police officers will be present at the event.
- No fireworks are allowed in the park or in public areas, such as the street, sidewalks or right-of-way (grass from sidewalk to street) by state law. Sparklers are allowed in Centennial Park for the Independence Day Celebration. Designated bins or buckets will be placed for you to dispose of used sparklers. Do not leave the metal sticks in the grass as they are dangerous to park visitors and lawn mowers.
Do vendors take credit cards?
Some food or beverage vendors may accept cards, but having cash is recommended. There will be an ATM at the open shelter if you need to get cash during the event.
What vendors will be there?
To be determined closer to the event.