“Middletown is about more than jobs and housing, and everything else. It’s about coming together as a community to enjoy each other’s company,” said Middletown City Manager Doug Adkins.
On Monday, residents are invited to Smith Park for a free concert from Broad Street Bash/Broad Street Blast featuring The Romantics. The concert will start at approximately 8 p.m. and the band will play up until the start of the fireworks. The festival will include food and drink vendors as well as a Kids Zone with games and inflatables. Miller Coors is the beer sponsor this year. A DJ will start around 5 p.m., followed by an opening acoustic act at 6 p.m.
Detroit-based, The Romantics were formed in 1977. Inspired by the British punk invasion and their hometown rock scene, the band has continued to make their mark on audiences across the globe for more than three decades. The Romantics are known for many hits, including “What I Like About You” and “Talking in Your Sleep.”
“The Romantics had quite a few big hits. They perform all over the world. If you enjoy old-school rock and roll, this is one band you definitely want to come out and see. We’re pretty hyped up about having them here in concert this year,” said Tim Lewis, co-chair of Broad Street Bash.
Monday’s festivities will conclude with the Atrium Medical Center’s 100th Anniversary Fireworks, which start at sundown (about 9:45 p.m.,) weather permitting. The fireworks will be shot off from the Middletown Regional Airport.
Parking will be available in the lots surrounding Smith Park. For those who park downtown, there will be two shuttles that will run from Smith Park to the transit station and back. Parking in Smith Park will only be available for vendors, handicap parking and VIP.
On Tuesday, the festivities will continue with a parade that begins at 10 a.m. at Woodside Cemetery and concludes at Smith Park. Following the parade, there will be parade awards given at 11:30 a.m. and a children’s fishing derby at Smith Pond.
Last year, about 17,000 guests participated in Middletown’s celebration. Officials said the City is hoping for 20,000 attendees this year. In the event of rain, the festivities will be postponed until Saturday, July 8.
How to go
What: Middletown's Independence Day Festival
Where: Smith Park, Middletown. On Tuesday, the parade will start at Woodside Cemetery at 10 a.m. and end at Smith Park.
When: Monday, July 3, and Tuesday, July 4. The festivities will kick off at 4 p.m. Monday at Smith Park.
Cost: Free. Food and drink vendors on site will have items available for purchase.
More info: www.CityOfMiddletown.org and www.longlivethebash.com
The latest information will also be available on the City of Middletown’s Facebook page and on the Broad Street Bash Facebook page. Visit The Romantics online at www.romanticsdetroit.com.
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