CHERRY CREEK — After a long absence due to the pandemic, the Cherry Creek Business and Community Association Inc. has announced the return of the annual Independence Day Celebration at the ballpark on Main Street.

All of the festivities enjoyed in past years will be returning, beginning at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 2, and will continue throughout the day, concluding with fireworks at 10 p.m.

Rides by Top Amusements, food, vendors, raffles and a beer and wine tent will continue all day. Patrons are reminded that no outside alcohol is allowed on the premises.

Rides will be open beginning at 1 p.m. and continue until the conclusion of the day at 10 p.m.

A Birds of Prey exhibit will be in operation between 1-5 p.m. A theme basket and item raffle will take place under the tent from 1-8 p.m, with winners announced at the event’s conclusion.

A chicken barbecue sponsored by the Cherry Creek Volunteer Fire Department will take place in the pavilion beginning at 2 p.m.

At 2 p.m. a pie contest will begin under the tent. Entries must be clearly marked, especially if pie dishes are to be returned. Contestants are reminded that no pies needing refrigeration will be allowed, and slices of the pies will be available for sale. Entries should be dropped off at the tent by 1 p.m.

Between 2-4 p.m., a classic car, truck and motorcycle cruise-in will take place. Music for the event will be by the “Kokomo Time Band.”

At 4 p.m., the lineup for the parade down Main Street begins on Southside Avenue. The parade commences at 5 p.m.

Music by “Midroom Drifters” begins at 7 p.m. in the pavilion and will conclude at 10 p.m., with the beginning of fireworks. Winners of the basket and item raffles will be announced at 8 p.m.

The annual “Panther Prowl” will begin at 1 p.m. Sunday, July 3.