
Information About Bexley’s Independence Day Evening Event Security Protocols
Events Take Place Friday, July 3, 6:00 pm to 10:30 pm
In order to ensure our July 3 evening festivities and fireworks are a safe and joyful event for all, additional security enhancements have been implemented, including required wristbands, secure entrances, and security screening. Please see the article below for more details!
Independence Day in Bexley
Independence Day celebrations in Bexley are truly unforgettable! Whether you're ooh'ing and ahhh'ing at the fireworks, dancing to The Big Rockin' Blues Band, running in the John Barr 5K, or enjoying the parade, it's going to be one fantastic celebration! And this year, it's bound to be extra special as we celebrate our nation's 250th birthday!
A special note: Our evening events and fireworks have moved to July 3 with some new security enhancements to ensure this event is safe and joyful for all. Learn more about the changes in the article below.
We're especially grateful for the support of Bexley Celebrations and Events (a fund at Bexley Community Foundation), Huntington Bank, Ohio State Bank, and Bexley Automotive for their generous support of our Independence Day activities! Thank you for making Independence Day in Bexley unforgettable!
Quick Links
Friday, July 3:
6:00 PM: Evening Events - Capital Lawn
10:00 PM: Fireworks - Capital Student Union
Saturday, July 4:
8:00 AM - John Barr 5K - Jeffrey Mansion
9:30 AM - Independence Day Parade - See Route Below!

July 3 Evening - Important Security Notes
July 3 Evening Event Security Protocols
We’re gearing up for another great Independence Day celebration in Bexley, and keeping our community safe is a top priority. Please note the following important security changes to our July 3 evening events at Capital University:
- Secure Entry Points for Event
Our evening celebrations are open to all, but attendees must enter through one of two secure entry points: Mound and Pleasant Ridge or Drexel and Main. - Event Wristbands Required Event wristbands will be required for entry for all attendees. Wristbands are free and will be provided to adults (18+) who may then distribute bands to minors in their household. Wristbands will be available at the event for adults with Photo ID, and can also be picked up at City Hall June 29-July 3 from 8am to 5pm (last advance pickup on July 3 is 3 pm), or at Jeffrey Mansion at Race Packet pickup times on July 2 (12 - 7 pm) and July 3 (9 am-4 pm).
- Security Screening
Security screening will include metal detectors and bag checks. All bags will be screened for weapons and illegal paraphernalia only. - No Unaccompanied Minors without an Event Wristband
Kids under age 18 will need to be with a parent or guardian in order to gain access to the event unless they are over 8 years old and wearing an event wristband.
How Do I Get Wristbands for My Family?
- In Advance: City Hall will distribute wristbands starting June 29, Monday to Friday during business hours. Wristbands can also be picked up during race packet pickup times at Jeffrey Mansion on July 2 and 3.
- At the Event: Bring your ID to either event entrance to get your wristbands as you enter the event. You may then distribute wristbands to minors in your care; this anticipated to be a quick process.
The 2026 Parade Lineup!
The 2026 Independence Day lineup is up! Check out who you'll see coming through when the parade steps off this Saturday, July 4 at 9:30 am sharp!

John Barr 5K-Registration
The John Barr 5K, presented by Bexley Automotive, is a run that starts and ends at Jeffrey Mansion (165 N. Parkview). The race begins at 8:00 am sharp, leaving plenty of time to cool off and watch or participate in the parade!
Check out the details below and click the button to register today!
Registration Fee:
Early Registration (by 6/8 at 11:59 pm): $30
Regular Registration (6/9 - 7/3 at 11:59pm): $35
Day-of Registration (7/4): $40
All participants will receive a race bag. Be sure to register by June 8 to be guaranteed a race shirt.
If you have questions about the John Barr 5K, email Lauren Miller or Natalie Mullin.


A huge thank you to the generous support of our Sponsors, including Bexley Celebrations & Events (a fund of the Bexley Community Foundation), and the following generous sponsors:
Parade Sponsor: Huntington Bank
Evening Sponsor: Ohio State Bank
John Barr 5K Sponsor: Bexley Automotive
Season Title Sponsors: The Wyler Collection and Ohio Heating and Cooling, in partnership with Bexley Community Foundation





