The Town of Fort Mill is inviting the community to celebrate the nation’s historic 250th birthday at the 54th Annual Firing of the Cannons on Saturday, July 4, 2026. This free Independence Day tradition will take place at 10:00 a.m. at the Main Street Bandstand in downtown Fort Mill.
The landmark Semiquincentennial celebration kicks off with a performance by the Fort Mill High School Band Fife and Drum Corps, followed by a Grand Procession of Patriots featuring the Fort Mill American Legion Post 43 and VFW. The patriotic ceremony includes a special musket firing, remarks from Mayor Guynn Savage and Town Council, and appearances by the South Carolina Strawberry Queens. Attendees will enjoy live patriotic music by the American Bombshells and Billy Foxx.
The Fort Mill Community Playhouse will bring history to life with a reading of the Declaration of Independence by George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Edward Rutledge Aubrey. Following a historical presentation on the tradition by Aydan Blackmon, the Short family will conduct the ceremonial cannon firing, marking their 53rd year as the town’s resident cannoneers. Complimentary Frios Pops will be provided by the town while supplies last.
Free public parking is available at the Municipal Lot, behind Main Street merchants, Veterans Park, and First Baptist Church. For safety, portions of North and South White Street, Main Street, Railroad Avenue, and Confederate Street will be closed from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Portions of Veterans Park and firing zones will also be restricted.
