Towns throughout Coles County are hosting events to celebrate America’s independence. Highlighted are a few celebrations that offer a variety of activities for both children and adults.

Starting a new tradition, the town of Shelbyville has expanded their Independence Day celebrations this year. In addition to the usual fireworks show over Lake Shelbyville, activities for all ages will begin at 11 am. Festivities will include live music, children’s games, nine-hole mini-golf and a dunk tank.

Fourth of July favorites such as Rib-eye sandwiches and barbeque will be served all day.

Shelbyville has celebrated the country’s independence with their annual fireworks display for decades, according to Chamber of Commerce Office Manager Dena Bolin.

“I remember coming out there, you know, as a child watching the fireworks,” Bolin said.

The fireworks are launched from the Dam West area, and can be seen from the top of the bank to Dam East.

“I don’t think there’s a bad spot down there!” Bolin said.

Shelbyville is not the only town offering up several ways to celebrate the Fourth.

Charleston’s Red, White & Blue Days will begin Sunday afternoon with Bingo from 2 to 5 p.m. in Morton Park. Players will have a chance to win cash and a variety of other prizes.

Activities will resume Tuesday evening with concession stands opening at 4 p.m. Live entertainment begins at 6 p.m. with a performance by country band the Well Hungarians, followed by country singer Sammy Kershaw at 8 p.m.

Kershaw’s hits include “Cadillac Style” and “She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful.”

The Fourth will kick off with the Habitat for Humanity four-mile walk/run will at 6:30 a.m.

Children’s games and activities will begin at 9 a.m. and will include inflatable and a fire safety fun foam pit. A chalk-in sponsored by the Arts Council will take place at 9:30.

Charleston’s annual Fourth of July Parade will start at 1 p.m., beginning its route at the town square and ending at Morton Park.

Following the parade, commemorative bell ringing and the Pledge of Allegiance will take place at 2:15 p.m.

Tommy Cash, younger brother to famous country singer Johnny Cash, will be performing at the park at 2:30 p.m.

A beer tent located outside the Panther Paw will be open Tuesday and Wednesday. The profits will go towards funding next year’s Red, White & Blue Days.

Mattoon’s Fourth of July Parade begins at 9 a.m. on the corner of 21st and Western. The parade is a patriotic salute to hometown heroes, said Mattoon Tourism Coordinator Angelia Burgett.

Applications are still being accepted for the parade. No fee or approval process is required to participate. Forms are available at the Mattoon City Hall.

Both Mattoon and Charleston are sponsors of the fireworks display, which is taking place at the Coles County Airport. The show will begin at dusk and viewers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets. No outside fireworks will be allowed.

Shuttles from Mattoon and Charleston to the airport are available.