Community Celebration – Slammin’ Sammy and the Knockouts performed festive tracks at the Monkey Park, kicking off the Pelzer and West Pelzer joint holiday celebration before the evening’s fireworks show July 4th. (Photo by Eddie Waits)
Pelzer and West Pelzer Rock The Red, White and Blue on July 4
By Tiffany McElhannon
Director of Community Outreach
Town of Pelzer
The Towns of Pelzer and West Pelzer came together on Saturday to celebrate Independence Day with an afternoon and evening filled with community spirit, family fun, and hometown pride. The annual July 4th celebration drew hundreds of residents and visitors, showcasing what can happen when local governments, businesses, churches, nonprofits, and volunteers work together for the good of the community.
The festivities actually kicked off on July 3 with the annual Pelzer vs. West Pelzer Softball Game. Played as a best two-out-of-three series, the friendly rivalry brought the communities together for an evening of fun and competition, with Pelzer claiming the championship.
With the generous support of local business partners, Friends of the Community Upstate and Pelzer Church of God served approximately 750 free hot dog meals complete with chips to attendees throughout the event. Vine Fellowship Church added a sweet treat by passing out cookies, while Tabernacle Baptist Church delighted families with free cotton candy.
The Free Kids Zone was made possible through the support of many local businesses and organizations. Throughout the evening, Slammin’ Sammy and the Knockouts kept the crowd entertained with live music, creating a festive atmosphere that carried into the night. Food trucks remained busy serving guests until after the spectacular fireworks display concluded the celebration.
One of the evening’s highlights was the community raffle hosted by Friends of the Community Upstate. Thanks to the incredible generosity of sponsors and community members, the raffle raised more than $1,800, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting the West Pelzer Fire Department. Congratulations to the raffle winners: Martha Garton, who won the pellet smoker; Alicia Silldorff, who won the women’s self-care basket; and Rachel Vasquez, who took home the Blackstone griddle door prize. Victory Today and The Well Market raffled off their own prizes for families to enjoy.
The Towns of Pelzer and West Pelzer extend their sincere appreciation to every sponsor, church, volunteer, vendor, entertainer, food truck, and attendee who helped make this celebration a success. Events like these demonstrate the strength of our communities and the impact that can be made when neighbors come together with a shared purpose. This year’s celebration was truly a community effort, made possible by the countless individuals, organizations, and businesses who gave their time, resources, and support to create an unforgettable Independence Day celebration.
