Independence Concert and Fireworks

The annual family-friendly event — jointly sponsored by Central Ohio Technical College, The Ohio State University at Newark and the J. Gilbert Reese Family Foundation — has been a long-standing free gift to the community held annually on July 3.

The evening’s celebration begins with popular local musical groups with all performances held at the Martha Grace Reese Amphitheatre. The crowd-favorite fireworks display begins at dusk to the accompaniment of patriotic favorites performed live.

This event is free and open to the public. Parking is also free. A number of local vendors will be serving food and beverages. The public is encouraged to bring lawn chairs, picnics and blankets for a fun-filled evening of music and entertainment.

Vendor Information

Applications are now open for the 2023 event. COTC and Ohio State Newark are seeking food vendors to serve the thousands of guests anticipated on the shared Newark campus for this event. Please note that submitting an application does not guarantee acceptance. Once notified, accepted vendors are required to pay a $150 fee and submit a certificate of insurance. Vendors are responsible for complying with the Licking County Health Department.

The application deadline is May 7.

Thank You

We are especially grateful to the J. Gilbert Reese Family Foundation, COTC and Ohio State Newark for making this one-of-a-kind community event possible.