Edgewood
Kenton County Commissioner Dr. Jon Draud and his wife, Beverly, will serve as grand marshals of the City of Edgewood’s Fourth of July Parade, which begins at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 4.
Draud, who has dedicated decades to public service in Northern Kentucky, is currentlyserving his fourth term on the Kenton County Fiscal Court. Throughout his career, he has been a steadfast advocate for public safety, infrastructure improvements and community development. He and Beverly have long been active volunteers and supporters of countless local organizations and initiatives.
As Commissioner Draud prepares to retire at the conclusion of his term in December 2026, the honor recognizes both his and Beverly’s lasting contributions to the Edgewood community and Kenton County.
Other Kenton County parades
Other parades happening in Kenton County include:
• Friends of Peaselburg Neighborhood Association: July 4 at 11 a.m. (see below)
• City of Independence: July 4 at noon
• City of Fort Mitchell: July 4 at 12:30 p.m.
Bellevue
Bellevue invites residents and visitors to enjoy a full lineup of free community events throughout July. From Independence Day celebrations and live music to family-friendly activities and opportunities to connect with city departments, there’s something for everyone.
“Our summer events are a great way to bring neighbors together while showcasing everything Bellevue has to offer,” said Mayor Charlie Cleves.
First Friday: Red, White and Bellevue
Thursday, July 3, 6–9 p.m.
Celebrate Independence Day weekend in Bellevue’s entertainment district with live music, food, shopping and family-friendly fun.
Fireworks at Bellevue Vets
Thursday, July 3, 10 p.m.
Cap off the evening with Bellevue’s annual fireworks display.
The O’Fallon Stallion
Friday, July 4, 11:30 a.m., race at noon
Fairfield Avenue and O’Fallon Avenue
A Bellevue Fourth of July tradition that brings together residents and visitors for a fun, community-centered race up the O’Fallon hill.
Peaselburg
Kentucky Celebrates America250 in Frankfort
Kentucky Celebrates America250 is a free, daylong celebration of American history and Kentucky heritage on Saturday, from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. EDT on the Kentucky Historical Society (KHS) campus in historic downtown Frankfort.
The event will be followed by a fireworks finale set to music.
“Our nation’s 250th birthday is a great opportunity to come together as Americans and celebrate the values that unite us, and the people and stories that have shaped our nation and our commonwealth,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “From history to live music to family activities and fireworks, this event offers something for everyone.”
Beginning at 10 a.m., guests can explore KHS’s Martin F. Schmidt Research Library, Commonwealth Hall, the Keeneland Gallery, the Old State Capitol grounds and the Capital Plaza Hotel Green Space.
Highlights throughout the day include:
• Live music performances, including Walker Montgomery, Kentucky Blue, the Louisville Orchestra, Dr. Everett McCorvey and Ben Sollee;
• Kids’ activities in the Cralle Day Garden, including games, giant checkers, Jenga, cornhole and free hot dogs (while supplies last);
• Tours of downtown landmarks and historic cemeteries;
• Keeneland Gallery talks on Daniel Boone, the Burgoyne Cannon and the Weight of Old Glory;
• Special exhibition tours of A Kentucky Journey and Civil War Governors of Kentucky;
• An Oral History Listening Booth, a free copy of the Register of the Kentucky Historical Society and a scavenger hunt;
• Hands-on History Passports for collecting stamps across all activity stations;
• Quill-and-ink signings of a replica Declaration of Independence;
• Kentucky Corps of Longriflemen firing demonstrations; and
• Gallery talks on topics ranging from the Civil War to Kentucky fashion; and
• Chautauqua Performances featuring Henry Clay, Charlotte Dupuy, Abraham Lincoln and Loretta Lynn.
For the event lineup and more information, visit history.ky.gov.