Freedom Over Texas

2026 Press Release

KEITH URBAN LEADS STAR-STUDDED FREEDOM OVER TEXAS LINEUP
Collective Soul and Los Lonely Boys Take the Stage as Houston Celebrates Independence Day During America’s 250th Year

Mayor John Whitmire and the City of Houston Mayor’s Office of Special Events are proud to announce the return of the City’s official Fourth of July celebration, Freedom Over Texas, with an electrifying lineup and exciting additions for 2026.

Headlining this year’s celebration is global country superstar Keith Urban, joined by opening acts Collective Soul and Los Lonely Boys. The event returns to Eleanor Tinsley Park on July 4th, bringing a full day of live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and a spectacular fireworks finale along Buffalo Bayou.

“Freedom Over Texas is one of Houston’s most exciting traditions, and this year, we’re making it bigger and better. We’re proud to bring an incredible lineup to our city for a Fourth of July celebration unlike any other,” said Mayor Whitmire. “As we mark America’s 250th anniversary, this event is more than a celebration. It is a reflection of the spirit, unity, and pride that define our community. Families, friends, and visitors can expect an unforgettable experience that showcases the energy and heart of Houston.”

Headliner Keith Urban is one of the most celebrated artists in country music, with four GRAMMY Awards, 13 CMAs, and more than 11 billion global streams. Known for high-energy, genre-blending performances and chart-topping hits like “Blue Ain’t Your Color,” “Somebody Like You,” and “Wasted Time,” Urban’s live shows are widely regarded as some of the most dynamic in the industry.

Joining him is Collective Soul, the multi-platinum rock band behind iconic hits like “Shine,” “December,” and “The World I Know,” bringing a high-energy, nostalgic performance to the main stage.

Rounding out the lineup is Los Lonely Boys, the Grammy Award-winning Texas trio known for their signature “Texican rock & roll” sound. With their breakout hit “Heaven” and more than two decades of music, the band continues to captivate audiences with a blend of rock, soul, and roots influences. Following the live performances, the celebration will conclude with a dazzling fireworks display presented by Thomas J. Henry Law.

New this year, Freedom Over Texas will introduce Futbol Park, a dedicated space celebrating the global excitement of soccer as Houston prepares to host matches this year. This area will be located in Sam Houston Park where fans of all ages can gather and enjoy the energy with soccer-themed games and activities, food vendors, photo moments, and plenty of seating and large outdoor screens.

This year’s festivities at Eleanor Tinsley Park on Buffalo Bayou (along Allen Parkway) include:

BUD ZONE
Founding sponsor of 39 years, Budweiser will toast Texas and celebrate America’s birthday with fresh brew and beverages this July 4th in their tropical beer garden. Allow yourself to be swept away by the music and atmosphere in the relaxing Bud Zone, while enjoying a perfect view of the main stage and spectacular fireworks finale.
DR PEPPER FLAVOR ZONE
Time to cool off in the shade with a refreshing Dr Pepper float from the Dr Pepper Parlor, and sample many of the tastings offered in this family friendly zone! Don’t miss the incredible live music and dancing offered throughout the event at the Dr Pepper Stage.
ALL AMERICAN KID ZONE
This year brings lots of new free games, plus face painting and plenty of interactive educational activities in this zone. DJ London will be spinning to keep the energy going along with strolling artists and your kids favorite costumed characters. Visit with our hometown sports teams. This area has activities for all ages, for toddlers and beyond, fun and excitement for the whole family!
LIBERTY PARK
Liberty Park will feature a tribute to the Armed Forces and First Responders, celebrating the spirit of service and sacrifice at the heart of Independence Day. Guests can enjoy photo opportunities and interactive experiences throughout the space.

As attendees make their way Downtown for Freedom Over Texas, METRO encourages residents and visitors to take advantage of its newly expanded weekend Park & Ride service, offering a convenient option to park outside the loop and ride into the city. Choosing transit helps reduce congestion and improve safety across Houston’s roadways during this busy holiday. Soccer fans can also use METRORail for a direct trip from NRG Stadium into Downtown for the festivities. Riders are encouraged to plan their trip in advance at RideMETRO.org.

Sponsors include - Anchor Sponsors: Bud Light, Dr Pepper, Thomas J. Henry Law; On-Site Sponsors: Southwest Airlines, McDonald’s Houston, Verizon, Shake Shack, Buffalo Bayou Partnership, METRO, AARP, American Furniture Warehouse; Television Partner: ABC13; Official Radio Sponsor: Radio One Houston: KKBQ-FM 93Q Country 92.9 / 92.9HD2 (Country Legends), KGLK-FM Houston’s Eagle 106.9/107.5, KBXX-FM The Box 97.9, KMJQ-FM Majic 102.1 / 102.1HD2 (Praise Houston); Official Hotel Sponsor: Hyatt Regency Downtown; Beneficiary: Houston Civic Events, Inc.; Producer: City of Houston Mayor's Office of Special Events

Admission is $15 per person, children aged 12 and under are FREE. Tickets are available online and at the gates. Applicable service charges apply for online purchases. Visit www.freedomovertexas.org for more details and to purchase tickets.

Volunteer and receive the official event t-shirt, free parking, complimentary food, and drink!

Freedom Over Texas Links

Contact Special Events Office

City Hall
901 Bagby, 1st Floor
Houston, TX 77002
E-Mail: specialevents@houstontx.gov
Phone: 832.393.0868

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