Fort Dodge will kick off Independence Day with not only the annual tradition of fireworks, but with free music for the entire family.

The Fort Dodge Fireworks Celebration is Wednesday at Fort Frenzy, 3232 First Ave. S.

Gates open at 4 p.m., with fireworks starting after 10 p.m.

But before that can happen, Todd McCubbin, who serves on the fireworks committee, said there will be three bands performing.

Scott Kirkhart will be performing from 5 to 6 p.m., while Lone Tree Revival will take the stage from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

“The first two are local bands and they’re absolutely amazing,” McCubbin said. “And the third one is Head East.”

Head East, which also performed at last year’s fireworks celebration, will be taking the stage at 8:30 p.m. and will play until 10 p.m., ending just before the fireworks are launched.

This year is Head East’s 50th anniversary.

“They’re doing a big thing for their 50th year,” McCubbin said. “So they’re excited to be out and doing this.”

Head East has a great stage presence, he added.

“They just rock the house,” he said.

McCubbin has high expectations for the show.

“It’s going to be amazing,” he said. “It’s always bigger and bigger, and having Head East for their 50 years is just so cool.”

The concert itself and the fireworks show are both free. There will also be food and beverages available for purchase inside the gates.

Guests are encouraged to bring either a lawn chair or a blanket for seating.

McCubbin is looking forward to the show.

“It’s gotten bigger and bigger every year,” he said. “I’d love to see the whole town come out.”