Red, White, and YOU: Parade and Picnic
Hot Springs National Park will celebrate America's 250th birthday with a full day of patriotic festivities on Saturday, July 4th. Hosted in partnership with the Friends of Hot Springs National Park and America's National Parks, the celebration features a community parade along Bathhouse Row, and the "Red, White and YOU" picnic on Arlington Lawn with live performances, games, activities, and ore. All events are free and open to the public.
9 a.m. - All-American Community Parade
Hill Wheatley Plaza, 625 Central Ave., Hot Springs, AR 71901
The All-American Community Parade will march through the heart of the park along Bathhouse Row. Participants will assemble at Hill Wheatley Plaza at 9:00 a.m. Where the morning will begin with raising the American flag and a singing of the National Anthem.
The parade will proceed north to Arlington Lawn, following a timeline through Hot Springs history from a drop of rain falling 4,400 years ago to the present day. The entire route is paved, mostly flat and half a mile long.
Community members are encouraged to dress as Uncle Sam, a Founding Father or Mother, or simply wear their best red, white and blue! Small decorative wagon floats are welcome and encouraged!
Parade participation is free. Register your wagon float by June 30, 2026 by visiting the following registration link: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/g/6taZxZGrM6
Please note that costumes should reflect that this is a commemorative, fun, and family-friendly community event. Leashed pets are welcome, provided they behave well with other pets and people.
10 a.m. - 3 p.m. - Red, White & YOU Community Picnic
Arlington Lawn, 301 Central Ave., Hot Springs, AR 71901
Following the parade, the celebration will continue on Arlington Lawn. Activities and booths will be ongoing from 10 a.m. To 3 p.m.. Activities include costume contests for children and pets, live performances, face painting, cupcake races, arts and crafts, games and photo booths.
Shade tents, tables, and cooling stations will be set up throughout Arlington Lawn and food vendors will be available with burgers, hot dogs, and ice cream for sale.
Fees
This event is free to attend.
Location
Arlington Lawn
Schedule
Date:
Time:
Duration:
9 a.m. - All-American Community Parade 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. - Red, White & YOU Community Picnic
Event Type
- Children’s Program
- Festival
- Living History