Shell Freedom over Texas

Russell Dickerson will headline The City of Houston’s official Fourth of July celebration, Shell Freedom Over Texas. The event will include live music, fireworks, and family-friendly fun. (Photo: Richard Carson) 

The City of Houston’s official Fourth of July celebration, Shell Freedom Over Texas, will be a "Texas-sized" event. Headlining the Shell Main Stage will be multi-platinum artist, Russell Dickerson. Special guest Jo Dee Messina is a trailblazing country music artist known for powerful vocals and chart-topping hits. Her breakout song “Heads Carolina, Tails California” made her a household name in the late 90s. She went on to achieve nine No. 1 hits and sixteen Top 40 songs and is the first female in country music history to celebrate three consecutive multi-week, chart-topping songs from the same album. Messina’s latest single, “Just to Be Loved,” adds to her legacy as a timeless name in the music industry with CMA, ACM and Grammy honors along with two platinum and three gold-certified albums by the RIAA. Featured artist Chapel Hart, who won America’s heart on America’s Got Talent, join the July 4th line up straight from the Grand Ole Opry. The trio of Danica and Devynn Hart along with their cousin Trea Swindle have found a way to wrap their Mississippi roots and Louisiana spunk into powerful ballads and fist-pumping, hard-hitting rock and roll. 

Following the live performances, the celebration will conclude with a dazzling firework display by Pyrotechnico. The show is dedicated to the many selfless acts by first responders and Houstonians in our community’s time of need.

This year’s festivities at Eleanor Tinsley and Sam Houston Parks on Buffalo Bayou (along Allen Parkway) include:

Bud Light Bayou Bash
Founding sponsor of 37 years, Bud Light will toast Texas and celebrate America’s birthday with fresh brew and beverages this July 4th in their tropical beer garden. Allow yourself to be swept away by the music and atmosphere in the relaxing Bud Light Bayou Bash beach area, while enjoying a perfect view of the main stage and spectacular fireworks finale.

Dr Pepper Flavor Zone
Time to cool off in the shade with a refreshing Dr Pepper float from the Dr Pepper Parlor, and sample many of the tastings offered in this family friendly zone! Visit with our hometown sports teams, including the Astros, Rockets, Dynamo, and Dash. Don’t miss the incredible live music and dancing offered throughout the event at the Dr Pepper Stage. Featured Artist, Mathias Lattin won the 2023 International Blues Challenge and Best Guitarist, becoming the youngest to win both at 20 years of age. Special Guests will include - NUNNABOVE, “the next generation of the Minneapolis sound,” and the Texas Latin Fusion group - Bamuaya.

All-American Kids Zone
New this year, Lego will be joining the festivities with an experiential activation that is sure to keep the kids and adults engaged! There are lots of new free games, an arcade, and rides, plus face painting and plenty of interactive educational activities in this zone. Houston’s own G. W. Carver High School’s Dance Team will bring an array of exciting dance performances throughout the day. Strolling artists and historic costumed characters help to form a ‘patriotic memento’ for your kids. This zone has activities for all ages, for toddlers and beyond. It's going to be an incredible day of fun and excitement for the whole family!

Liberty Park
Liberty Park will feature “Symbols of Freedom” as a reminder of the historic roots of July 4th. The five military branches will be represented by Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy and first responders. They are available to take pictures with military assets and participate in booth activities. Featured on the Liberty Park Stage this year: Brian Jack and the Zydeco Gamblers, and Country artist Gary Kyle, and more!