Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Events topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Waco to host Jackson family concert and H‑E‑B fireworks at Fourth on the Brazos; public-safety plans emphasized
Summary
Parks & Recreation outlined July 4 programming at Touchdown Alley, including a Jackson family concert, H‑E‑B fireworks, a laser light show and multi-agency safety staffing; Waco PD and Baylor University will partner on security and logistics for the expected large attendance.
Jonathan Cook, director of Parks and Recreation, previewed Waco’s Fourth on the Brazos celebration and America 250 activities at the June 16 council work session, describing a concentrated event footprint at Touchdown Alley and supporting neighborhood events across the city.
Cook said the city expects a concentrated activation from about 6:00–10:00 p.m. with more than 15,000 attendees at the riverfront area and surrounding viewing spots. The program includes a headline performance by members of the Jackson family (Marlon and Jackie Jackson leading a multi‑member ensemble), the H‑E‑B Fireworks Extravaganza as title sponsor, and a new laser light show sponsored by Texas TFNB. More than 20 local food and drink vendors will participate.
Cook emphasized safety and multi‑agency planning: Waco Police will staff the event with 80+ officers on site, supported by Waco Fire, emergency management and Baylor University as an operational partner. Planning meetings began months ago and intensified in the weeks before the event, he said.
Cook outlined historical context and the decision to host the event near McLane Stadium (Touchdown Alley) in coordination with Baylor. He also described distributed America 250 activities—neighborhood parades (Castle Heights), museum exhibits and community block‑party affiliates—and encouraged attendees to use official public maps and event messaging while noting heat and safety precautions.
Council members expressed support and appreciation for the planning effort. Cook said additional event details will be announced through the city’s communications channels and invited further questions at upcoming briefings.
