‘We’re ready for a great show’ Celebration set for Fourth By Adam Harringa Nothing attracts people to Austin like explosions and bright lights. Jeff Baldus, of the Austin Area Chamber of Commerce, said they estimated 25,000 to 28,000 people converged on Austin last year for the Freedom Fest fireworks display, and he expects just Turn to as many this year. That and the FreePages 4-6 for dom Fest parade, he said, are the the Freedom two most popular events of the fiveday Fourth of July celebration, now Fest schedule. in its 27th year. “As we talk with people, fireworks are definitely their favorite thing,” said Baldus, the Chamber’s Member Relations & Major Events Coordinator. “Fireworks are what we get graded on. ... We’re ready for a great show.” Tom Sherman, left, carries a giant flag with the Chamber ambassadors/Perkins float during the flag during the Fourth of July parade last year. Herald file photo
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