Bismarck, N.D. – The City of Bismarck has announced significant updates to its annual Independence Day celebration, including a new location, expanded programming, and a renewed focus on family-friendly, community-centered activities.
Due to ongoing construction at the North Dakota State Capitol Grounds, the traditional event site is no longer available. In response, City Administrator Jason Tomanek convened a planning committee composed of civic and community leaders to ensure the continuation and enhancement of the event.
Beginning in 2025, Bismarck’s Fourth of July celebration — officially renamed *Red White & Boom!* — will be held at the MDU Resources Community Bowl on the Bismarck State College campus. The event is scheduled for Friday, July 4, from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. CT. Admission is free and open to the public.
“The MDU Resources Community Bowl offers the ideal space to elevate this experience for families, music lovers, and fireworks fans alike,” said Tomanek. “We’re thrilled to welcome the community to a new setting that preserves the heart of this tradition while creating exciting new opportunities.”
**Expanded venue, enhanced experience**
The new location provides increased space for attendees and allows organizers to introduce a broader range of activities. Seating will be available in the bowl area, with additional lawn seating to the west. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs.
Highlights of this year’s event include:
* **Family Fun Zone**, presented by H.A. Thompson & Sons, featuring sack races, inflatable attractions, and oversized lawn games such as Giant Jenga and cornhole.
* **Creative Zones**, presented by MDU Resources, offering hands-on activities for children and families, including a Bubble Zone and a “Message to America” wall for reflective engagement on the meaning of freedom.
* **Community Heroes Competition**, sponsored by New Vision, consisting of a cornhole contest to raise funds for local community service initiatives. Participants may pay \$5 for five throws, with prizes awarded based on performance.
* **Treats & Eats**, presented by Capital Credit Union, with food available for purchase from local vendors, including FOMO 10-40 Creamery and Olive’s Ice Cream Truck. Alcoholic beverages will be sold on-site to attendees 21 and older.
* **Live Music and Entertainment**, sponsored by Basin Electric, including athletic exhibitions by local pole vaulters, a live performance by recording artist Savanah Benz, and the return of the Bismarck-Mandan Symphony Orchestra for its 31st annual Independence Day concert.
**Fireworks display to conclude festivities**
The celebration will culminate in a large-scale fireworks show, presented by Bismarck State College. The display will be launched from the southwest corner of the Community Bowl and is expected to provide extensive visibility, with the Missouri River serving as a natural backdrop.
City officials emphasized that the event’s relocation and redesign were undertaken not only out of necessity but also with a long-term vision for enhancing civic engagement and access.
“This event remains a cornerstone of Bismarck’s summer calendar,” said Tomanek. “With the move to the Community Bowl, we are taking deliberate steps to preserve tradition while embracing innovation and inclusivity.”
Further details, including maps, parking information, and event schedules, will be provided by the City of Bismarck in the weeks leading up to the holiday.
