FORREST COUNTY — Petal and Hattiesburg residents are coming together July 2 for the Star-Spangled Celebration on the River, a free Fourth of July celebration across Hattiesburg’s Chain Park and Petal River Park. 

Event attendees at both parks will experience live music, food and drink options in celebration areas, a family-friendly kids room and activities beginning at 6 p.m. The fireworks show will begin at 9 p.m. 

Hattiesburg Chain Park and Petal River Park are the two viewing areas for the event, both offering free shuttle services from dedicated areas. 

Chain Park is recommended for those with accessibility needs. Those entering through Petal River Park should look for red, white and blue flags for entry into the event. 

Attendees are advised to arrive with a shuttle plan because of on-site parking limitations. Off-site parking and shuttle services will be available from the start time to 10 p.m. 

Leaf River’s boat ramp and water access will close at 4 p.m. for the duration of the event, and Longleaf Trace’s bike path from the Historic Train Depot will close 30 minutes before the fireworks show. 

Petal will have dedicated off-site parking lots along U.S. Highway 11: SERVPRO at 873 U.S. Highway 11 and the gas station at 831 U.S. Highway 11. 

Grove Transit shuttle service will have pickup spots along U.S. Highway 11 for the Petal side and designated spots on the Hattiesburg side. 

Organizers encourage attendees to bring lawn chairs, blankets, small personal items that can fit in their laps and a payment method for vendors and kids zones. Coolers, pets, glass, tents and personal fireworks will not be allowed.