Demopolis’ annual Freedom on the River celebration brings back old favorites and adds a new event this year.

From noon to 10 p.m. on Friday, July 4, downtown Demopolis will be the patriotic hub.

The Best Backyard BBQ will begin at noon at George Franks Field. Admission to this event will be $5, and barbecue teams will be handing out samples throughout the afternoon. DJ Fast Eddie will be playing music during the afternoon, and there will be activities and inflatables for children as well. The winner of the competition will earn a spot in the Christmas on the River barbecue competition.

There are only 20 spots available for cooking teams for the cook-off. The cost to compete is $100 for a five-man team, and teams will receive a 30×30 space with water and electricity. Each team must give out at least 15 pounds for samples or giveaways. Turn-in times for the competition will be from 4-5:30 p.m. Teams will be allowed to set up on Thursday, July 3.

The new FOTR event this year is the Children’s Corral, which will provide children of all ages the chance to play patriotic games, compete in sack races and more games and activities. The Children’s Corral will open at 4 p.m.

At 6 p.m., the annual Children’s Parade will begin. Prizes will be awarded for the most festive entries into the parade. Wagons, strollers, skateboards and bicycles are welcome to enter the parade. Registrations must be completed at the Children’s Corral by 5:45 p.m.

At the Demopolis City Landing from 6-8 p.m., there will be live music from the Montgomery-based band, Lisa and the E-Lusion. The band specializes in 80s Dance, Motown, Top 40, Old School Funk, Rock-n-Roll and Hip Hop.

At 9 p.m., the annual fireworks show from Mark Pickel and Extreme Pyrotechnics will be held.

There will also be vendors set up throughout the day selling food, drinks and glow sticks.

For more information about the barbecue or any other Freedom on the River events, contact the Demopolis Area Chamber of Commerce at (334) 289-0270.