Organizers say the America 250 Atchison Celebration kicks off early Saturday morning, July 4th, with a free community pancake breakfast from 7:45 until 10:45 that morning. Steve Johnson, marketing director for Benedictine College says a come-and-go open house at the new Benedictine College Library, inspired by Independence Hall, runs from 9 that morning until noon.
That afternoon, a Downtown Patriotic Parade begins at 4:00, with lineup beginning at 10th and Commercial at 2:00 that afternoon. Atchison Mayor La Rochelle Young says entrants are being accepted now to take part in one of the parade categories.
At 5:00 on the July 4th evening, food, inflatables, and music get underway along the Riverfront, with the Garin Noland Band performing from 5 until 7, followed by the Soca Juke Box Band from 7:15 until 9:15 that evening.
All day long, historical reenactors from the Lewis and Clark Discovery Expedition of St. Charles, Missouri, will be camped at Atchison Riverfront Park, sharing the replica keelboat and stories of American history. The newly refurbished Forest of Friendship, with new walkways and signage, will also be open throughout the day.
The evening closes with a patriotic drone show at 9:30, followed by fireworks over the Riverfront at 9:45.
Organizers say flags are still available at the Santa Fe Depot and local businesses. More details can be found here .
