Roosevelt State Park A250

Celebrate America 250 at Roosevelt State Park during our A250 Independence Celebration! From live music and family activities to kayak races, patriotic ceremonies, a boat parade, and fireworks over Shadow Lake—this two-day event is packed with fun for all ages.

Bring your lawn chairs, your family, and your red, white, and blue spirit for a holiday weekend filled with outdoor recreation, patriotic traditions, and unforgettable memories at Roosevelt State Park.

July 3 | Family Fun & Live Entertainment ($5.00 Admission Per Person)

Children ages 5 and under are admitted free.

10:00 AM – 6:00 PM: Vendor Circle (Shadow Lake Splash Zone Roundabout)

• The Vendor Circle will feature both food vendors and craft vendors.
• Food, beverages, and vendor items will require additional purchases.

10:00 AM – 6:00 PM: Kid Zone (Main Day Use Area)

• There is no additional cost to participate.
• Activities will include jump houses, foam machines, bubble machines, and additional family-friendly games and activities.
• There is no age limit for participation.
• Access to the splash pad, pool, and water slide at the Shadow Lake Splash Zone will require an additional fee.

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Watermelon Eating Contest (Pavilion 3)

• There is no pre-registration required.
• Participants should report to Pavilion 3 prior to the scheduled contest time.
• The contest will include both youth and adult divisions.
• There is no additional cost to participate.
• The watermelon eating contest is organized by the Friends of Roosevelt State Park.

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Relay Games & Bingo

• Activities will take place within the primary event area near the lake, pavilion spaces, and surrounding recreation grounds.
• There is no additional cost to participate.

4:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Kayak Races (Boathouse & Fishing Pier Area)

• Guests are invited to bring their own kayaks.
• A limited number of kayaks may also be available to rent.
• There is no pre-registration required.
• Race divisions will include adult women, adult men, youth girls, and youth boys categories.
• First and second place awards will be presented within each division.
• All participants must wear a life jacket while participating.

2:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Live Entertainment (Pavilion 2)

• Travelin' Jane performing live.
• Included with park admission.

July 4 | Full Day Celebration ($5.00 Admission Per Person)

Children ages 5 and under are admitted free.

10:00 AM – 9:00 PM: Vendor Circle (Shadow Lake Splash Zone Roundabout)

• The Vendor Circle will feature both food vendors and craft vendors.
• Food, beverages, and vendor items will require additional purchases.

10:00 AM – 9:00 PM: Kid Zone (Main Day Use Area)

• There is no additional cost to participate.
• Activities will include jump houses, foam machines, bubble machines, and additional family-friendly games and activities.
• Access to the splash pad, pool, and water slide at the Shadow Lake Splash Zone will require an additional fee.
• Kayak rentals will also be available throughout the day. Kayak rental rates are currently planned at approximately $20 for a four hour rental and $30 for an eight hour rental. (Pay for your rentals and sign waivers at the Camp Store. See the Watercraft Liability Waiver you'll sign here.)

2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: DJ Groovy Entertainment (Pavilion 2)

• Included with park admission.

2:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Car Show

• Hosted by Sparkz & Recreation Car and Truck Shows.
• The event will operate as a drive-in style show and pre-registration is not required.
• Awards will include Best of Show and Top 20.

3:00 PM: Camper Decorating Contest Winners Announced

• Winners will be selected from R.O. Hannah Campground, CCC Loop 1, and CCC Loop 2.

4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Golf Cart & Bike Parade

• There is no sign-up required.
• Participants should report to Pavilion 2 prior to the parade beginning.
• There is no age limit.
• There is no additional participation fee beyond standard golf cart permit requirements.
• The parade will make a loop through the primary event area.

5:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Patriotic Ceremony

• Included with park admission.
• A250 Flag Ceremony
• National Anthem & Pledge
• The A250 Flag Ceremony and patriotic presentation will be conducted by MDWFP Honor Guard and MDWFP Law Enforcement personnel.

5:00 PM – 9:00 PM: 90 Proof Live Entertainment (Pavilion 2)

• Included with park admission.
• Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, tents, and grills and enjoy the event in a tailgate-style atmosphere.
• Alcohol is not permitted.
• Fireworks will be visible from the entertainment area.

7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Boat Parade

• Participants must register at the event booth by 6:00 PM.
• Boats will launch from the main boat launch area and follow the game warden around the lake route.
• Participants will complete two laps around the lake before returning to the fishing pier near the boathouse for judging.
• There is no age limit.
• This event is open to motorized boats only.
• Kayaks and canoes are not eligible to participate.

9:00 PM – 9:30 PM: Fireworks Over Shadow Lake (Included with park admission)

• Fireworks will be launched from a barge positioned in the center of the lake.
   

Make it a full holiday weekend—book a cabin or campsite and enjoy the newly upgraded campground, CCC cabins, and beautiful views of Shadow Lake!

Plan your stay: www.reserve.mdwfp.com

For more information, please contact the park at 601-732-6316.

For more America 250 celebrations: https://www.mdwfp.com/america250