By: Abbi Heckel

The latest episode of the Downtown Lowdown podcast, sponsored by the Downtown Tipp City Partnership and hosted by Tasha Weaver and Greg Enslen, welcomed two familiar faces from Tipp City to discuss one of the community’s most anticipated events of the year, the annual Fourth of July celebration. 

Joining the hosts were Tipp City Manager Eric Mack and Executive Assistant to the City Manager and Clerk of Council Janice Bates, who shared details about this year’s festivities and the continued growth of the community celebration.

According to Mack, the city’s fireworks event has evolved significantly over the years. What was once a simple fireworks display held at City Park has transformed into a larger community festival at Kyle Park, offering residents and visitors a full evening of entertainment.

“The goal has been to create more than just a fireworks show,” Mack explained. “We wanted it to become a true community event.”

Bates, who has played a major role in organizing the celebration, outlined the expanded lineup for this year’s event. One of the highlights will be a food truck rally featuring 15 vendors offering a wide variety of food and beverages. Returning favorites include La Granja Mexican Food Truck, Show Dogs Hot Dogs, The Homestead Spud, Kona Ice, Traveling Tom’s Coffee, Sweet Peas Handcrafted Ice Pops, and several others.

In addition to the food offerings, attendees will enjoy live entertainment from Rock This Way, a tribute band performing popular hits spanning the 1970s through today. The band will begin performing at 6 p.m. and will continue until just before the fireworks display.

“This year is really a whole event,” Bates said. “There’s something for everyone.”

The 2026 celebration carries additional significance as part of the nationwide America 250 commemoration, marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. Mack noted that Tipp City officials intentionally expanded this year’s fireworks display to recognize the milestone.

“Our City Council wanted to make this year’s show even bigger,” Mack said. “It should be a fantastic experience for the community.”

The hosts also discussed several other America 250 events taking place throughout the holiday weekend. Downtown Tipp City will host Family Game Night on July 3, while a free Community Picnic will be held at City Park on July 5. The picnic will feature complimentary food, including hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, and other traditional picnic fare for attendees.

As residents prepare for the celebration, city officials reminded visitors that personal fireworks and alcohol are prohibited at Kyle Park. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and pop-up tents to enjoy the festivities comfortably.

Beyond the Fourth of July festivities, Mack also shared updates on several city projects, including new removable safety bollards planned for downtown events, proposed crosswalk safety improvements, and continued economic development projects throughout the city.

The episode concluded with both hosts expressing appreciation for the collaboration between city departments, local organizations, and community volunteers that helps make Tipp City’s celebrations successful.

Residents can learn more about upcoming city events through the My Tipp City mobile app or by visiting the City of Tipp City website.

The full episode of Downtown Lowdown is available now through Clock Tower Media’s podcast platforms.