City Council announces July 4 fireworks event at Freerfield with traffic management plan

The Ashland City Council meeting on July 1, 2025, highlighted the upcoming Fourth of July fireworks display, set to take place at Freerfield for the first time due to renovations at Community Stadium. This year marks over 40 years of the fireworks tradition, with local organizations responsible for fundraising and planning the event.

Council members emphasized the importance of community safety and organization, detailing plans for traffic management starting at 5 PM. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, around 6 PM, to ensure a smooth entry. The event will feature a "patriotic tailgate party" atmosphere, complete with music from Ashland University's WRDL and a live broadcast leading up to the fireworks at 9:45 PM.

In addition to the fireworks, the Rotary will host a raffle with a prize package valued at approximately $7,500. Attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere with two large LED screens for viewing and a robust sound system to enhance the experience.

The council also discussed the completion of new pickleball courts at Brookside West, funded largely by local benefactors. These courts are expected to draw more attention to the area, alongside improvements to the nearby bicycle pump track.

Lastly, excitement is building for the Big Splash pool party on July 26, which has seen attendance grow significantly in recent years. The event will be free for children aged 2 to 15, with a nominal fee for others, promising a fun-filled day for the community.