If you’re looking for fun, free ways to celebrate Independence Day 2019 in Shreveport-Bossier, we’ve got you covered.

Bossier City’s East Bank District and Plaza will host the East Bank Block Party headlined by Louisiana music icon Wayne Toups. Toups is regarded as the most commercially successful Cajun musician of all time and headlines major music festivals, so it’s kind of surprising that the title of the Facebook event for this block party doesn’t mention his name. It’s also amazing that the concert is free, thanks to event organizers BeauxJax CrafthouseBayou Axe Co., and Flying Heart Brewing and Pub. Live music will begin at 4:30 p.m. and Toups will take the stage at 8 p.m.

If you’re looking for a truly unusual way to celebrate Independence Day, you may want to check out the Amber Waves of Pain Party at Great Raft Brewing. Great Raft Brewing will celebrate Independence Day with the release of their latest beer, live music by The Mansion Family, food by Louisiana Food Prize-winning Chef Jacob Mouser, ice cream by Sweetport and – get this – professional wrestling inside the brewery from 12-4 p.m. I couldn’t make this stuff up if I tried. Admission appears to be free. Here’s the official Facebook event.

A photo of Wayne Toups
Louisiana music icon Wayne Toups will headline a free block party in Bossier City on July 4. Courtesy photo.

Speaking of crazy: The ostrich and camel races are back at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs. While you couldn’t pay me enough money to ride an ostrich, there are brave souls out there who get the job done during this family-friendly annual event at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs. There’ll also be a kids’ zone, face painting, and more. Admission is free. Visit the Facebook event for complete details.

Arguably North Louisiana’s most popular July 4 event, the annual KTBS-3 Independence Day Festival is back and as big as ever. If you’re looking for a lot of details about this event, here’s the only link you’ll need. Newly renamed the KTBS 3 Freedom Fest Finale, this outstanding festival begins at noon and will culminate with fireworks around 9:15 p.m.

Enter to win the Summer Getaway Giveaway, including dining at El Cabo Verde, axe-throwing at Bayou Axe Co, and more.

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