It all started in 1984 with a fireworks display and, four decades later, the Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival is ready to celebrate its 40th birthday.

Let me begin with a tip of the cap to Peter Teahen.

Peter Teahen
Peter Teahen
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Teahen was the person who, in 1984, secured the support of the Cedar Rapids Metro Veteran's Council for a 4th of July fireworks display in the city. The "Celebration of Freedom" fireworks were born. It's my favorite annual event in Cedar Rapids, and it's easily the most attended.

Over time the Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival has grown to include a number of events every year and the lineup for this year has been revealed. The 3-week series of events will begin on Wednesday, June 14, and conclude on Tuesday, July 4. Below is a look at the specifics of some of what will be happening.

The very popular Cedar Rapids Balloon Glow will be held at Jones Park (201 Wilson Ave. SW) for the second straight year. In 2023, it will be held on Saturday, June 17.

Courtlin
Courtlin
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Balloon Glow will also feature live music from 42 Romeo (34th Army Band, Iowa Army National Guard):

Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival
Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival
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and The Bamboozlers:

Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival
Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival
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Thursday, June 29 'Top Gun Maverick' will be shown for 'Movie at the Ballpark' (Veterans Memorial Stadium).

On Saturday, July 1, 'Music at the Museum' returns. The event will be co-headlined by Amy Friedl Stoner and Birdchild:

Birdchild/Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival
Birdchild/Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival
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On the 4th of July, in advance of fireworks, there's a concert featuring Brass Transit Authority:

Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival
Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival
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and Vibe:

Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival
Vibe/Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival
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As always, the Festival of Freedom fireworks will conclude the festival on the 4th of July. This year's Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival calendar is below. You can find more details on specific events here.

* A 2023 Freedom Festival button will be the entry ticket for almost all of this year's events. They will be $10 and will be available later this spring at area Hy-Vee and Hy-Vee Fast & Fresh stores.

Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival
Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival
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