Gonzales celebrates 16th annual Star-Spangled Spectacular during bicentennial year

The heart of Texas is about to burst with pride and patriotism as Gonzales hosts its 16th annual Star-Spangled Spectacular on Friday, July 4, at Independence Square — right in the middle of the city’s 200th birthday year!

As part of Gonzales' Bicentennial celebration, this year's Star-Spangled Spectacular promises to be bigger, brighter, and more spirited than ever.

The beloved annual event, organized by Gonzales Main Street, continues a tradition that began in 2010 — and in true Gonzales fashion, it brings the entire community together for an evening of family fun, festivities, and fireworks.

This year’s celebration will feature all the crowd favorites plus a few new patriotic twists. Families can kick off the evening at 5 p.m. with food trucks, vendors, games, bounce houses, and activities for all ages. But don’t be late—there’s plenty of excitement you won’t want to miss!

NEW this year:

• A juicy Watermelon Eating Contest—come hungry and bring your competitive spirit! Sign up will be day of event only.

• A Patriotic Pet Contest, where four-legged friends can strut their stuff in red, white, and blue.

Don’t miss the return of the VFW’s beloved Patriotic Kids Parade, where children show off their festively decorated bikes, wagons, scooters and more as they parade around the square. It’s a sweet, small-town tradition that brings smiles to every face.

As the sun begins to set, the stage heats up with live music performances from local favorites, setting the perfect tone for an unforgettable summer evening. Guests are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs and picnic blankets and enjoy the music, mingle with neighbors, and soak in the celebration.

Then, as night falls over historic downtown, all eyes will turn to the sky for the grand fireworks finale. The dazzling patriotic show will light up the skyline and close the evening with a spectacular bang—worthy of both Independence Day and Gonzales’ 200 years of bold history.

“This year is incredibly special,” said event organizers. “We’re not only celebrating America’s birthday — we’re celebrating our own. Two hundred years of Gonzales history, community, and pride will come together on this unforgettable night.”

Admission is free, and all are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to grab a great spot and enjoy everything the Star-Spangled Spectacular has to offer. Details, schedules, and updates can be found on the City of Gonzales’ website or by following Gonzales Main Street on social media.

So mark your calendars, Gonzales — this Bicentennial edition of the Star-Spangled Spectacular will be one for the history books!