Gates will open at 4 p.m. and the festivities begin at 6pm with live performances by saxophonist and DeSoto favorite, Don Diego followed by 1990’s recording artist, Dru Hill. Dru Hill is an American singing group whose repertoire includes soul, hip hop soul and gospel music. Founded in Baltimore, Maryland and active since 1992, Dru Hill recorded seven Top 40 hits, and is best known for the R&B #1 hits “Never Make a Promise”, and “How Deep Is Your Love.”

There will also be lots of carnival-style food available for purchase and free activities for kids. The fireworks to music spectacular will follow the free Dru Hill concert at 9 p.m. or as soon as it’s good and dark. Since this is a free, community event in a city park, city ordinance requires that there be no smoking or alcohol on the premises. Proper attire is required and we are asking that you leave pets at home due to the large crowd expected. Use of a mosquito repellent containing DEET is recommended. Shade tents will be allowed in designated areas. Outside food and water or sodas are allowed but barbeque grills are not allowed.

There are approximately 1,500 parking spaces available at the park. Once the parking lots are full, thru traffic will be closed on Uhl Road between Parkerville Road and Bearcreek Road. Patrons will be directed to remote parking at DeSoto High School with free shuttle bus service to and from the event. To preserve a clear route for emergency vehicles, parking will not be allowed on Blue Bonnet Drive. Once the fireworks end, traffic leaving the park from the grass parking area will be required to go north on Uhl Road and those on the south side of the park will be required to exit and go south on Uhl Road until the park is cleared.

DeSoto Fire Marshal, Wayne Orr would like to remind everyone that fireworks are not allowed within the city limits of DeSoto.