One of Texas’s most beloved hometown celebrations returns to the historic square with a parade, fireworks over the lake, vendors, a 5K, and three days of family fun — and this year it’s marking America’s big 250th
July 3–5, 2026 — Historic Granbury Square, Granbury, Texas. Free, family-friendly, all weekend long.
If you’re looking for the kind of Fourth of July that feels like it stepped straight out of a postcard, point your truck toward Granbury this year, neighbor. This Hill Country lake town throws one of the most beloved hometown celebrations in all of Texas, and 2026 is extra special — it’s the nation’s 250th birthday, and Granbury is going all out.
Now in its 52nd year, Granbury’s Hometown 4th of July Celebration takes over the historic town square from July 3 through 5, with a theme to match the milestone: “Red, White & Celebrate – 250 Years!” Three full days of patriotic, family-friendly fun await, anchored by the things that make small-town Texas celebrations so special: a hometown parade, fireworks bursting over Lake Granbury, live entertainment, vendors, contests, a 5K run/walk, and that warm, neighbor-to-neighbor community spirit you just can’t fake.
The crown jewel is the parade, and it’s a big one — drawing more than 15,000 viewers down the streets of the historic square. This year, the celebration is honoring the Dan Coates Family as the 2026 Parade Grand Marshal, a fitting nod to the kind of community roots that make Granbury what it is.
And here’s a tip for anyone who wants the best seat in the house: new this year, the celebration is offering VIP parade bleacher seating in two zones around the square, sold in blocks of ten on a first-come, first-served basis. If you’ve got a big family or a crew of friends, it’s a great way to claim your spot in the shade and watch the whole parade roll by in comfort. To reserve, you’ll want to reach out to the Chamber soon, since spots are limited.
When the sun goes down, all eyes turn to the water for the fireworks over Lake Granbury — there’s something genuinely magical about watching the show light up the night sky and shimmer across the lake, with the historic square glowing behind you. It’s the kind of moment that turns a regular summer night into a memory the kids will carry for years.
A few friendly tips to make the most of it: Texas Julys are hot, so bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water, and stake out a shady spot early if you’re not doing the bleachers. Come hungry, because the vendors are half the fun, and bring some cash for the food and craft booths. And whether you come for a single day or settle in for the whole weekend, plan to slow down, wander the historic square, and soak up that hometown charm.
So round up the family, grab your red, white, and blue, and make the drive to Granbury this Fourth. Where better to celebrate America turning 250 than in the heart of a Texas town that knows how to do it right? Questions about the weekend can go to the Granbury Chamber of Commerce at (817) 573-1622 or [email protected]. https://granburychamber.com/red-white-and-celebrate/
