We may usually be known for our Texas pride, but the people of the Hill Country are equally recognized for our patriotism. Our communities are pulling out all the stops to commemorate the nation’s semiquincentennial birthday. Take a look at the festivities across the Hill Country as we honor two and a half centuries of unity, liberty, and justice for all.
Boerne
“This is a monumental time for our country, and I believe the city will do an amazing job celebrating the 250th anniversary of our nation.” Boerne Mayor Frank Ritchie is excited for the celebrations that his town will host. “Each of us has a responsibility to care for our neighbor and for our community,” Ritchie emphasizes. “May we be civil in our differences, find commonality in our hope, and serve each other joyfully.”
On the morning of July 4, festivities will begin with the 7th Annual Flag 5k Run. Proceeds will go to the Boerne Fire Department. The run starts at 8:00 a.m., so arrive early and bring your flag. Learn more at runsignup.com/Race/TX/Boerne/flagrun5k.
Then, the festivities continue along the Hill Country Mile. “Our Main Street and downtown businesses will continue their First Saturday celebrations,” says Christopher Shadrock, Communications & Civic Engagement Director for the City of Boerne. From 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., shops, restaurants, and boutiques along Main Street will stay open late with specials, promotions, live music, food, drinks, and more.
Black Rifle Coffee Company will host a block party from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in honor of the day. This celebration will include a car show, food trucks, live music, and even axe-throwing! For more information, check out their Facebook page at facebook.com/blackrifleboerne.
The City’s festivities culminate in the annual fireworks show at Boerne City Park, which begins approximately 30 minutes after sundown and is expected to last about 25 minutes. You’ll find the best views at the park or on the neighboring Kendall County Fairgrounds.
On Sunday, July 5, the Boerne Concert Band keeps the party going with an Independence Day Concert at 7:00 p.m. at Main Plaza. Grab your lawn chairs and blankets and stake out a spot on the lawn to enjoy the show. For more information, visit boerneconcertband.com.
Fair Oaks Ranch
In Fair Oaks Ranch, Mayor Greg Maxton says the nation’s milestone arrives with a communal sense of accountability. “We are reminded not only of the sacrifices that secured our freedoms, but also of the responsibility each generation has to preserve and strengthen those freedoms for the future.”
Leading up to July 4, Fair Oaks hosts a city parade, a veterans’ breakfast, a children’s art and essay contest, and a home decorating competition. Maxton says, “Events like this bring residents together across backgrounds and experiences, strengthening the relationships that make a community resilient and cohesive.”
The Ranch kicks off its festivities on July 3, with a community trail walk and run hosted by Fair Oaks Ranch Homeowners Association. The events will start at 7:30 a.m. at Cibolo Creek Community Church. To learn more and to register in advance, visit fairoaksranchtxevents.com/celebration-events.
The City lights up the night at its July Fourth Celebration at Fair Oaks Ranch Golf & Country Club. Festivities start at 6:00 p.m., and the fireworks and laser show are scheduled for 9:00 p.m. They will have music and local fare. Be sure to bring cash and seating to fully enjoy the event. Find all the details at fairoaksranchtx.org/569/Fourth-of-July-Celebration. “It promises to be a memorable and enjoyable evening for everyone!”
Comfort
The Comfort Chamber of Commerce hosts a series of events on July 4 in its historic district. The children’s bicycle parade will start pedaling at 9:30 a.m., followed by the main parade at 10:00 a.m. The fun continues with a celebration festival at Comfort Park at 11:00 a.m. featuring a pie contest, food, and live entertainment. For parade route and more information, visit comfortchamber.com/july-4th-celebration.
Canyon Lake
The Liberty on the Lake Committee is “Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary” at Canyon Lake. The free event boasts its first-ever over-the-water fireworks show. This “BYOS” (Bring Your Own Seating) party offers food trucks, a biergarten, and live music. The fun starts at 8:00 p.m., and you can learn more at wordcc.com/liberty-on-the-lake.
Bandera
The Cowboy Capital will host its 30th Annual Pet Parade at Bandera City Park to kick off the July 4th fun. Registration starts at 9:00 a.m., and the parade starts promptly at 10:00 a.m. (or whenever the cats feel like it). Admission is free, and all pets are welcome. For more information, visit banderacowboycapital.com/events/2026/30th-annual-pet-parade.
Then, the Fourth of July Parade is at 12:00 p.m. on Main Street. Hosted by the Bandera Business Association and 11th Street Cowboy Bar, this cowboy-themed celebration will have food and vendors in collaboration with their Market Days event. For more information, visit banderabusiness.com/4th-of-july-parade-2026.
“Events like this bring residents together across backgrounds and experiences, strengthening the relationships that make a community resilient and cohesive.” — Greg Maxton, Fair Oaks Ranch Mayor