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Bridge City is hosting a community event featuring a drone light show, live music and more to honor veterans ahead of Independence Day. The “Red, White & You” celebration will take place at the Bridge City Community Center on Saturday.

The weekend kickd off Friday at 5 p.m. with an arts and crafts show in the community center. Local vendors will sell a variety of items such as hand-woven products, Christian novelties and homemade salsa.

The main event is slated for Saturday. Gates open at 5 p.m. with a flag presentation at six and entertainment to follow.

The opening musician, Nederland native and country singer Paige Price, begins her set at 7 p.m. She’ll be followed by country and southern blues band Chip Darby & Vintage Soul at 8 p.m..

The highlight of the evening begins at 9 p.m. with a state-of-the-art light-up drone show, the first of its kind in Southeast Texas. Nearly 200 illuminated drones will fly over the park and imitate fireworks, with an added bonus — they will create other patriotic symbols such as the Statue of Liberty.

The drones are a flashy, modern alternative to traditional fireworks, but also serve another purpose. Since there are no loud sounds from fireworks exploding, the drone show creates a safe and friendly environment to celebrate veterans, especially those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.

Laura Childress, who helped plan “Red, White & You,” said organizers wanted to ensure the event was all-inclusive so everyone from young people to older veterans alike can celebrate Independence Day.

LED-lit bracelets which sync with the drone show will be available for purchase and cost $5 each

After the drone show, headlining act Bag of Donuts will take the stage at 9:30. The band emulates glam rockers of the 1980’s and have gained a regional cult following thanks to crowd-pleasing performances. Additionally, they were inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame in 2019.

Food trucks from Taco Rey, LBS Barbecue and Ice Cream Shack will be on-site. There will also be a beer garden for adults.

There is a $10 entrance fee per person, while admission is free for veterans with military ID and kids under six years old. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets and lawn chairs.

Tickets are available both at the gate and online via QR code on promotional materials.