City offers a full day of July 4th celebrations

The City of Hondo is preparing for a Fourth of July celebration that will be especially meaningful this year, as communities across the country mark America’s Semiquincentennial, her 250th birthday. 

On Saturday, July 4, Hondo residents and visitors are invited to celebrate Independence Day with a full day of activities honoring freedom, community and hometown pride.

The celebration will begin at 8:45 a.m. at the Rick Taylor Recreation Center with a flag ceremony presented by Hal Jones American Legion Post 128, followed by a proclamation read by Mayor McAnelly recognizing this historic milestone for our nation. The morning ceremony will set the tone for a day centered on patriotism, remembrance and celebration.

Following the ceremony, participants can take part in the Stars & Strides 5K, which begins at 9 a.m. at the Rec Center. Those interested in running or walking the 5K may sign up at the recreation center on the day of the event. Whether participants are competitive runners, casual walkers, families or first-time 5K participants, the event is designed to be a fun and welcoming way to start the holiday.

Throughout the day, the city will also offer several free recreational opportunities for the community. The Hondo Municipal Golf Course will offer free golf from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., giving residents and visitors a chance to enjoy time on the course as part of the celebration. Later in the day, families can cool off at the City Pool, where free open swim will be available from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. All regular pool safety rules will apply.

The celebration will conclude after dark with the City’s annual fireworks show at the Medina County Fair Grounds, a favorite community tradition and a fitting finale to a day honoring America’s independence.

For the City of Hondo, this year’s celebration is more than a holiday event. It is an opportunity to bring the community together to recognize 250 years of American history and to celebrate the people, traditions, and hometown spirit that make Hondo special.

“We are proud to bring these events to our community and to create opportunities for families, friends and neighbors to celebrate together,” said Public Relations Director, Jamie Kindred. “America’s 250th birthday is a once-in-a-generation milestone, and we are excited to honor it right here in Hondo.”

The city invites everyone to come out, participate and enjoy a full day of Independence Day activities. From the morning flag ceremony and proclamation to the 5K, free swim, free golf and fireworks after dark, Hondo’s Fourth of July celebration promises to be a memorable day for the entire community.