The Music City has become one of the top places to celebrate our country's independence. With one of the biggest fireworks displays in the nation and tons of live music and activities, "Let Freedom Sing! Music City July 4" continues to impress.
Thousands are expected to pack downtown and lower Broadway for the 12th annual event. However, city officials said many changes have made it a brand new event. Because of recent terror attacks on U.S. soil the city has stepped up police enforcement and regulations to keep everyone safe.
To ensure that your trip downtown goes off without a hitch, there's some things you should know, ranging from fun additions to help you celebrate to additional rules you need to prepare for.
1. There are now two stages - Ascend Amphitheater and The Green at Riverfront Park.
Sheryl Crow will headline the event on July 4, and Brandy Clark will headline July 3. More than 10 artists have been booked for both days. For a full list of artists, click here.
2. However, unlike past years, each area will be first come first serve, and will have a max capacity limit.
Meaning, not everyone will be allowed in Riverfront Park or Ascend Amphitheater. The Fire Marshal told the city they're going to have to limit the number of people who can be at those two venues for safety - 7,1000 at Ascend and 7,300 at Riverfront Park.
3. No large bags, backpacks or coolers will be allowed in certain areas.
All bags will be subject to search and random searches will be conducted as well. A total of 21 security check points will be stationed at the perimeter of the "footprint" area which includes Riverfront Park and Ascend Amphitheater. The bags and coolers are not allowed inside the footprint. Click here for a complete list of what is not allowed.
4. There will be three tailgating areas, where coolers and backpacks/large bags will be allowed: courthouse public square, Nissan Stadium parking lot and Walk of Fame Park.
City officials understand the regulations on coolers would be an inconvenience for attendees; so they've made water pretty cheap.
5. From 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. water bottles will be 2 for $1 -- From 5 p.m. until end of event they will be 1 for $1.
6. No chairs allowed in Ascend Amphitheater.
Last but not least, remember all of the entertainment is FREE.
7. Bring sunscreen and patience.
A crowd of 250,000 people or more are expected to be within the half mile area of lower Broadway; so officials reminded everyone to come early for a good view.
For a full list of road closures downtown for the holiday, click here.
For information on boating downtown on July 4th, click here.
