Corpus Christi photographer Tony Fitzgerald captured the beauty and elegance of fireworks from the USS Lexington at last year’s Fourth of July celebration in Corpus Christi. This year, the fireworks has moved to the Lawrence St. T-Head to accommodate a larger audience. Photo Courtesy Tony Fitzgerald.
Take one last look at fireworks from the USS Lexington on North Beach. Mayor Nelda Martinez, hostess of the Mayor’s Big Bang Fourth of July celebration, moved this year’s fireworks display to the Lawrence Street T-Head, which will provide a better view for more people. In fact, viewing can be found all along the waterfront from Dolphin Park on North Beach to Oleander Point at Cole Park. Fireworks begin at dark.
The move became necessary as attendance to the 30-year-old event continues to grow. Last year, hotels in Corpus Christi were categorized as “sold out” by Expedia, an online hotel booking service. According to city estimates, some 100,000 people attended the fireworks display in 2014.
Along with fireworks and the Harbor Bridge light show, Corpus Christi provides live music, kid friendly activities, a parade and much more. The fun actually begins Friday night with the First Friday ArtWalk and lasts until Sunday, with the Harbor BridgeWalk.
Saturday, July 4, begins at 7 a.m. at the Solomon Ortiz Center when the Four for the Fourth Run, sponsored by the Corpus Christi Roadrunners, takes off.
The Big Bang Kids Zone and ArtWalk will take place in downtown Corpus Christi from 4 to 8 p.m.. Activities include rock climbing wall, bounce houses, police and fire department displays and other activities for kids of all ages. Artists, food venders and live music all add to the festive atmosphere.
The Big Bang Parade along Shoreline Blvd. begins at 6 p.m. It starts north of Mann St., takes a u-turn at Taylor St. and ends at Fitzgerald St.
For those who want a little extra with their firework viewing, the Art Museum of South Texas, the Museum of Science and History and the Texas State Aquarium are all sponsoring viewing parties for both members and non-members. For an extra charge, you can celebrate with food trucks, vendors and the special surroundings of some of the city’s biggest attractions.
When viewing the fireworks and Harbor Bridge light show, tune in to KBAY 92.7, Z95 or 1440 AM ESPN for the music used to choreograph the show.
For more events, visit 101corpuschristi.com/EVENTS for a full slate, including the Rockport Art Festival, summer concerts and live theater. With the click of a mouse or the touch of a finger on your smartphone or tablet, you can email the events you are most interested in attending to your family and friends or install them directly to your digital calendar. Don’t miss a single event!
