Grammy-winning percussionist Sheila E. will headline the Town of Florence's Freedom Fest 2026, a free Fourth of July celebration with live music, food, family activities and what the town calls its biggest fireworks show yet.

The event runs Saturday, July 4, from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Florence Multipurpose Field and Aquatic Center, 174 W. 1st St. Admission is free. Florence is a short drive south of the San Tan Valley area, and the lineup carries several local and regional ties.

Sheila E. takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. The singer, songwriter and drummer is known for the hits "The Glamorous Life" and "A Love Bizarre," and for work alongside Prince, Ringo Starr, Beyoncé, Gloria Estefan, Marvin Gaye and Lionel Richie. Her set caps an evening built around the celebration of America's 250th anniversary.

A Lineup With Local Roots

Before the headliner, the stage leans regional. Honeygirl, a Queen Creek-based country act led by singer-songwriter Kira Brown, performs at 6:15 p.m. The band includes Scotty Johnson of the Grammy-nominated Arizona group Gin Blossoms. Opening the night at 5 p.m. are a National Anthem performance by Evelyn Errante and The Blindsiders, a cover band from the Florence and Queen Creek area.

Florence Copper, the operation next door that draws much of its workforce from the larger San Tan Valley area, is the presenting sponsor and will deliver a message at 7 p.m., after remarks and a proclamation from Florence Mayor Keith Eaton.

Entertainment Schedule

• 5 p.m. — National Anthem by Evelyn Errante

• 5 p.m. — The Blindsiders

• 5:45 p.m. — Your Behind BBQ Rib Eating Contest

• 6:15 p.m. — Honeygirl

• 7 p.m. — Mayor's remarks, proclamation and Florence Copper sponsor message

• 7:30 p.m. — Headliner Sheila E.
• 9:15 p.m. — Fireworks show

More Than Music

The celebration runs well beyond the concert. Attractions for all ages include water slides, a 45-foot-long water obstacle course, sports inflatables, giant lawn games, a nine-hole mini golf course, a Stars & Stripes sand art experience, and a remote-control car course called Full Throttle RC Raceway. A Toddler Soft Play Zone is set aside for children up to age 4, and face painting and balloon animals will be near the vendor area.

The Florence Aquatic Center will be open from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. with free admission, so guests can swim during the day and watch the fireworks from the pool. Food vendors include Chef on the Go, San Tan Hotdogs & Docs Dogs, Sunshine Funnel Cake, Maui Wowi Smoothies, Snowie Town, Cuties Lemonade, Copper Corn and Udder Delights.

What to Know Before You Go

Parking will be available at several spots, including Jason Lopez Memorial Park (formerly Heritage Park), the Florence Community Center and Aquatic Center, the dirt lot southwest of the Community Center, downtown Florence side streets, and Town Hall for overflow.

Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets; complimentary water will be available. Canopies are allowed in designated areas but must come down by sunset. Weapons, personal fireworks, glass containers and illegal substances are prohibited, and pets are not allowed except for trained service animals.