Celebrate July holiday

Independence Day is right around the corner.

Jay County’s annual 4th of July festivities kick off Friday.

Activities start with the Firecracker 5K, with registration beginning at 7 a.m. prior to the race start time at 8 a.m. at the front entrance to Jay County Fairgrounds.

The Independence Day parade begins at 11 a.m. at East Jay Elementary School and ends at the north entrance to Jay County Fairgrounds. A flag ceremony is slated for noon at the fairground’s front entrance. Free face painting, balloon animals, hot dogs and tours will  also be available at Museum of the Soldier, 510 E Arch St., Portland, from 1 to 5 p.m.

Fireworks will begin at 10:30 p.m. at the Tri-State Gas Engine and Tractor Association grounds  and in the northern parking lot of the fairgrounds.