By Carol McCracken (Post # 508)

This year’s Fourth of July celebration on the Eastern Promenade will include a new tradition to the already magnificant fireworks that viewers have come to expect. The Portland Symphony Orchestra will give a prefireworks concert that begins at 7:40 pm and runs throughout most of the fireworks display. That portion of the Stars & Stripes Spectacular is scheduled to start at 9:20 pm.

The free Patriotic Pops concert by the PSO will feature performances of Sousa, Gershwin and Tchaikovsky. The concert will continue throughout most the fireworks display. There will be a reading of the Declaration of Indpendence and a musical salute to the armed forces and the “1812” Overture. Robert Moody, music director of the PSO will be conducting.

A variety of vendors offering 4th of July souvenirs and food will be located along the Eastern Promenade from noon on. Water, soda and glowing necklaces will be sold exclusively to support future fireworks shows. Public restrooms will be available at the East End Beach. Due to the crowds and loud noises, spectators are asked to leave their pets at home.

Thirty tables have been reserved near the stage for close-up viewing. Each table seats 10 people at a cost of $1,000 per table. Or one half of a table costs $500 per table with seating for 5 people. Tables are still available. All proceeds go to the July 4th Foundation. Please visit www.july4thportland.org for reservations and to learn more.

Munjoy Hill is closed to traffic from 4 pm until 10 pm on the Fourth. A rain date is scheduled for Monday, July 5th. Call the city’s hotline at 756-8130 if a change seems likely.