Fourth of July Star-Spangled Celebration July 4, 2009

The Star-Spangled Celebration features food, fun, and music on the riverfront in downtown Baton Rouge throughout the day on July 4th. The USS KIDD, a World War II naval destroyer, and the Veterans Memorial are open for touring from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (admission is charged). Food and drink booths open on the street at 12:00 noon. Live musical acts take the stage around 2:00-3:00 p.m. Children's activities such as face-painting and inflatable slides and bouncers are also present throughout the afternoon.

At 6:00 p.m., one of the highlights of the event occurs when the USS KIDD herself is "attacked" by vintage World War II aircraft and a mock battle ensues with the destroyer firing back with three of her main battery guns. Explosives in the river provide that extra bit of realism as do smoke canisters located aboard ship to simulate hits by the "bombing runs" of the planes.

The celebration wraps up at 9:00 p.m. just before the Fireworks Over the Mississippi begins. Tickets to view the fireworks display from the decks of the USS KIDD can be purchased, usually beginning two weeks prior to the Celebration. Supplies are limited, so call in early to secure them.

The rest of the festival is open to the public free of admission; charges for food and drinks apply. All drink sales go toward the support of the USS KIDD, recognized by the Historic Naval Ships Association as one of the most outstanding naval restorations in the world. The USS KIDD is a non-profit organization, receives no state or federal funding, and is supported by admissions, gift shop sales, and donations.

Official Website: http://www.usskidd.com