'Houston's hallmark civic event': Turner announces plans for Freedom Over Texas

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner recently announced plans for this year’s Freedom Over Texas Fourth of July celebration at Eleanor Tinsley Park, per reports from Houston-based media outlets. 

It’s the annual summertime event’s second in-person gathering since last year after the COVID-19 pandemic prompted it to go virtual from 2020 to 2021.

"I invite Houstonians and my fellow Texans to join us for this annual celebration so we may demonstrate the importance of honoring our country, respecting the values of our founding fathers, and instilling pride in our community," Turner, who’s in his final term as mayor, said, Houston ABC affiliate KTRK reported.

KTRK reported that Tennessee-born and bred country singer and songwriter Chris Young has been tabbed as the 2023 Freedom Over Texas headlining performer.

According to the station, it’s essentially a second chance for the 37-year-old Young, who held the same role in 2018 but didn’t perform after holiday flooding forced the cancellation of the celebration.

Young is famous for winning the fourth season of "Nashville Star," USA Network’s reality singing competition program. 

He went on to record and release eight studio albums, including his 2021 effort, "Famous Friends." 

KTRK reported that Young, whose slated appearance follows that of Houston native Clay Walker, was nominated for the Grammy and a Country Music Award (CMA).

Joining Young on the performance slate are British musician and actress Yola, Louisiana singer Cupid and soul/R&B/funk band TMF, as well as several others, Houston NBC affiliate KPRC reported. 

The station reported that Freedom Over Texas, which is presented by Shell, attracts 50,000 people yearly. 

Its pièce de résistance is the fireworks show that caps off the night.

"Shell Freedom Over Texas is Houston's hallmark civic event,” Turner said, KTRK reported. “It is a true pleasure to welcome our sponsors and to celebrate the birth of our nation.

“We will be paying tribute to the men and women who have made great sacrifices to ensure our freedoms,” the mayor added.

The cost of admission is $10, while children 5 years old and younger can attend free of charge.

Tickets can be purchased on the City of Houston’s website for the event.