BY MARK J. CRAWFORD
Telegraph Editor
STARKE — With the success of the inaugural Starke Splash Bash last Independence Day, organizers are bringing in back even bigger.
Calling it the largest July 4 event in Starke’s recent history, organizers, including coordinator Michael Heeder of Funtastic Fire Brigade, anticipate doubling Splash Bash attendance to nearly 10,000.
Wristbands go on sale Thursday, June 1, at Starke City Hall, Bradford County Sheriff’s Office and Sporting Chance. A day’s worth of fun and entertainment are assured for just $3 per wristband.
That includes:
—the military tribute and fireworks/laser light show.
—huge water play area.
—Guns ‘n Hoses charity softball tournament.
—cornhole tournament
—stage with music from multiple performers.
—car show.
—Touch a Truck event.
—food trucks.
—vendors.
A parade down U.S. 301 with a military flyover of P17 Warbirds is also planned.
The event will take place on Tuesday, July 4, from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Bradford High School’s David Hurse Stadium. The softball game begins at 9 a.m. meanwhile vendors will be setting up for the day. The parade begins at 11 a.m. Field activities along with the car show and Touch a Truck begin at noon. During the early afternoon there will be two Starke Police Department K9 demonstrations as well as a mock crash with a Jaws of Life demonstration.
The water play field opens at 3 p.m. on the football field. At 4 p.m., the cornhole tournament kicks off at the tennis courts. The water area will shut down at sunset around 8 p.m. Around 9:20, the military tribute will begin, followed by the laser light and fireworks show.
The performance schedule includes Eli Rogers at 2:30 p.m., Jaelyn Jackson at 3:30 p.m., JD Norman at 4:30 p.m., LeeAnn Purvis at 5:30 p.m., B-Magic at 6:30 p.m., Matt Wilsey & the Gentlemen Jukebox Band at 7:30 p.m. and Southern Burn at 8:30 p.m.
Sponsoring organizations are the city of Starke and the Bradford County School District, with grant support from the Bradford County Tourist Development Council.
Organizers are offering a few ways for individuals and businesses to receive recognition for sponsoring the Splash Bash, beginning with donations as low as $250. Contact [email protected].
For updates on the event, follow Starke Splash Bash on Facebook.
