City News Blog: T. Mims Corp. Red, White and Kaboom Returns July 3 to Celebrate America's 250th Anniversary

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 T. Mims Corp. Red, White and Kaboom Returns July 3 to Celebrate America's 250th Anniversary 

LAKELAND, FL (June 3, 2026)| As America celebrates its 250th Anniversary, the City of Lakeland invites residents and visitors to gather for the annual T. Mims Corp. Red, White, and Kaboom Independence Day Celebration on Friday, July 3, 2026, at Lake Mirror along the Frances Langford Promenade from 6:00 p.m. to 9:15 p.m.  

This free patriotic celebration will feature live music, local food vendors, patriotic entertainment, and family-friendly fun as our community joins others across the nation in commemorating 250 years of American history. The celebration will culminate with a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Mirror at 9:00 p.m. 

In recognition of this historic milestone, attendees will also witness the unveiling of a statue honoring Mary Katharine Goddard, the printer and publisher of the Declaration of Independence whose name appeared on the first publicly distributed copies of the historic document. The unveiling serves as a unique tribute to an influential figure whose contributions helped shape the story of American independence. 

Red, White, and Kaboom provides an opportunity for families, friends, and neighbors to come together to celebrate our nation's history, honor those who helped build it, and reflect on the shared values that continue to unite us today. 

The evening will begin with a special performance by The Sing Out Crew, a talented local youth singing group comprised of grade school students under the direction of Renard Hayes Jr. Their patriotic performance will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. 

Following the opening performance, Lakeland-based band Bully For You will take the stage as the event's featured musical act, bringing their high-energy mix of rock, pop, and dance favorites to the waterfront. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/BullyForYouBand. 

Admission to Red, White, and Kaboom is free. Attendees are encouraged to bring at least one non-perishable food item to support Volunteers in Service to the Elderly (VISTE), a local nonprofit organization that helps seniors throughout Lakeland, Bartow, Mulberry, and Fort Meade maintain their independence and quality of life.

T. Mims Corp. President Tom Mims shared, "Our family has proudly sponsored Red, White and Kaboom since 2009. This event represents the very best of our community—neighbors coming together to celebrate our country, support one another, and create lasting memories. As we mark America's 250th Anniversary, we encourage everyone to join us and help make this year's food drive for VISTE our most successful yet." 

This year food vendors will be located in the Lakeland Magnolia Building parking lot. Attendees can enjoy a variety of food vendors throughout the evening, including: 

• Chick-fil-A 

• Pipo's Latin Food 

• Mango Is Mad 

• Spontaneous Consumption 

• Castro's Cafe 

• SB&B Seafood 

• Burger 21 

• Big Hot Box 

• Glazed Up Mini Donuts 

• Chief's Food Truck 

• The Sweet Spot 

• The Pudding Queen 

What to Bring 

Guests are welcome to bring blankets and personal coolers. No glass containers are allowed.  

Prohibited Items 

For the safety and comfort of all attendees, pop-up tents, large umbrellas, and any staked shade structures will not be permitted. Glass bottles and glass containers are prohibited.  

Parking 

All City of Lakeland parking garages will be open and available for public use. 

Join us as Lakeland celebrates America's 250th Anniversary with history, music, fireworks, community spirit, and one of the nation's most cherished traditions—Independence Day. 

Share your experience on social media using #RedWhiteAndKaboom2026 and #RWK2026. 

For additional event details, visit www.LakelandGov.net/RWK.