Great food, entertainment and a fireworks show will mark Independence Day, when the city of Newark celebrates at the University of Delaware Athletic Complex on Thursday, July 4.

Beginning at 6 p.m., the event will feature live entertainment and art, food and community vendors, concluding with a fireworks display at dusk.

Local musical acts will include the Jersey Corn Pickers, a bluegrass band, starting at 6 p.m., and Mike Hines & the Look, a high-energy dance band, performing at 7:45 p.m.

Free parking is available in the lots surrounding Delaware Stadium and the Bob Carpenter Center, as well as the Woods Lot (off Route 4) and the STAR Campus north and south parking lots.

Alcohol is not permitted during the event, and the community is asked to leave pets at home and be sure they are secured safely during the fireworks display, as the noise can frighten animals.

The rain date for fireworks and musical entertainment is Friday, July 5. If weather is questionable, please call the city of Newark's Leisure Time hotline at 302-366-7147.