LIVE OAK FREEDOM FESTIVAL
Freedom Fest
By Hayli Zuccola
As America celebrated its 250th birthday this year, the city of Live Oak paid tribute to the milestone with Freedom Fest, an evening filled with history, patriotism, family-friendly activities and plenty of celebration.
The evening began with a Veterans Recognition Ceremony honoring combat medics, combat nurses and military veterans, who were presented with Keys to the City in recognition of their service and sacrifice.
The Living Timeline Parade in downtown Live Oak, presented by McAlpin Homeschool Co-op and the Freedom Fest Committee, put a unique spin on the traditional Fourth of July parade. Rather than traditional floats, 182 participants donned costumes representing seven eras of American history, from the Revolutionary Era in 1775 through modernday America. Beginning at Parsley Street and Pine Avenue, the walking parade made its way to Paul Langford Stadium, bringing different chapters of the nation’ s history to life along the route. Participants in each era were eligible for recognition based on creativity, historical representation, patriotic spirit and overall presentation.
The Freedom Fest Spirit of America Awards recognized standout parade participants, while also honoring winners of the Freedom Fest Storefront Decorating Contest. The contest invited businesses, organizations, churches and community members to celebrate America’ s 250th birthday by transforming storefronts, entrances and other public-facing displays with patriotic decorations. Awards included the All-American Display Award, Stars and Stripes Award, Spirit of America Award, Mayor’ s Choice and Community Choice.
Back at Millennium Park, the celebration continued with face painting, bounce houses, kids’ activities, historical displays, food vendors and live music from the Zack Petty Band. For those looking to test their appetite, the Rudy’ s Dawgs Hot Dog Eating Contest,
114 SUWANNEE CHAMBER IMPACT | 2026-2027