Eric Deckard with his kids at the Kid Zone creating painted rocks at the Daughters of the American Revolution booth. Photo courtesy of Eric Deckard

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) – Even though the Stars and Stripes event at Van Maren Park is only in its fourth year, it has grown exponentially from 2,900 attendees in 2023 to 3,400 in 2024 and 3,900 in 2025. This year's event marked a significant increase in participation and reflects the continued success and growing popularity of the Stars and Stripes Celebration.

The word has gotten out that Citrus Heights holds a Fourth of July themed event with something for everyone, drawing visitors from surrounding counties. This year on June 27, more than 6,000 locals and those from surrounding areas descended up the little more than four acres of lawn.

Parking was almost nonexistent by 7 p.m. as those strolling in wanted to claim their own chunk of lawn where they could spread out with their lawn chairs, blankets and dinner, hear the music, get a bite from the one of the seven food trucks, and join their kids at the KidZone.

Despite the crowds, the police department, General Services staff and community volunteers worked before, during and after the event to keep everyone safe. With three years of experience, the team operated like a well-oiled machine.

Live music was provided by one of the country’s most popular dance bands, Big Crush.

Seven food trucks could barely handle all the business they received.

Mom and kids enjoying all that Stars and Stripes has to offer. Photo by Elise Spleiss

Mayor MariJane Lopez Teff welcomed the crowd and introduced the city council.

City manager Ash Feeny said, “Citrus Heights knows how to make freedom ring, doesn’t it?”

When the music began children of all ages were running, dancing, doing cartwheels, and using this opportunity to just be silly without judgement. No one had to tell them a great night was ahead of them. The Kid Zone just over the hill hosted by Sunrise Recreation and Park District and the Citrus Heights Police Activities League (PAL) gave away goodies, as well as offered crafts and face painting by the Purple Pageant.

One of those most popular dance bands in the country, Big Crush, got the audience up and dancing almost immediately. The audience of all ages spent the entire evening dancing to the music.

The annual free, family-friendly event lasted until 10 p.m. with the culmination of the fireworks by Pyro Spectaculars. This year all were treated to at least three false fireworks grand finales which drew out anticipation for the actual grand finale. As the Star-spangled Banner sung by the head of the band, prior to the fireworks, nearly the entire audience rose with their hand over their hearts. It ended with thunderous applause. The celebration had begun!

“This year’s Stars & Stripes was particularly special in celebrating America’s 250th birthday,” said event director Regina Cave. “From the increased attendance, to the incredible entertainment provided by Big Crush, and the extraordinary fireworks display our partners at Pyro Spectacular choregraphed for Citrus Heights, this year’s celebration did not disappoint. I think the bar was raised, and staff are already looking forward to planning for next year’s celebration.”

Malayah pops a giant bubble at the Kid Zone. Photo by Elise Spleiss

Communications Officer for Citrus Heights Marisa Brown added, “Approximately 108 staff members, volunteers and community partners supported the 2026 Stars & Stripes Celebration throughout the day. This included City staff across all departments, Police Activities League (PAL) volunteers, community volunteers and partner organizations that hosted activities in the Kids Zone. Together, they supported the event from early morning setup through post-event cleanup, helping provide a safe and enjoyable celebration for the community."

Sponsors were: Stage Sponsor Republic Services, Restoration Management Company, Kid Zone balloons- Quality First Home Improvement and Stones Gambling Hall.

The event at Van Maren Park drew nearly 6,000 attendees. Photo courtesy of Marisa Brown