Marion announces Bulls, Boots & Bright Lights celebration for America’s 250th anniversary
FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
MARION, Ill., (KBSI) — Community partners announced plans Tuesday for Bulls, Boots & Bright Lights, a large-scale, family-friendly celebration marking 250 years of American independence, set for Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Mtn Dew Park.
The event will kick off Independence Day weekend in celebration of the nation’s semi quincentennial and is designed to bring families and neighbors together for a shared community experience, organizers said.
The celebration is a partnership between Pepsi MidAmerica, The Oasis Family of Businesses, Watermark Auto Group and the City of Marion. Organizers said the collaboration reflects a commitment to accessibility, community pride and high-quality entertainment. Tickets will start at $25.
The evening will feature professional bull riding, returning to Mtn Dew Park for the first time since June 2023. A Sky Elements drone show will follow, marking the first appearance of the nationally recognized aerial display company in Southern Illinois. The night will conclude with a live concert by country music artist Easton Corbin, whose career includes multiple chart-topping hits.
Organizers said the event is intended to echo the spirit of the nation’s 1976 Bicentennial celebration and create a lasting memory for today’s families. In preparation for America’s 250th anniversary, Marion officials said they have worked with local veterans’ organizations and community groups to ensure the celebration honors service and strengthens community connections beyond a single event.
Additional details, including the official ticket on-sale date, will be announced at a later time.
