ASHLEY TERRY
One of Azle’s most anticipated nights of the summer will return Saturday, July 4 — showing new attendees just a small snippet of the community’s patriotic pride.
Follow the Flag — the Azle Area Ministerial Alliance’s annual Christian and patriotic celebration of America’s independence — will return to Azle’s Central Park, 263 W. Main St., beginning at 7 p.m. for a full evening celebration of faith, freedom and fun.
Over the past three decades, this beloved tradition has become a premier event among both established and new residents, with thousands gathering in the park every Fourth of July to enjoy live, Christian entertainment and celebrate our nation’s independence.
For the 33rd annual event, the AAMA will offer a diverse lineup of entertainment that reflects the variety of people in the community, including performances from artist Erik Smallwood, a Christian rap duo and the First Baptist Church of Azle Praise Band.
AAMA coordinator Holly Killough explained how members of the faith-based organization strive each year to kick off the event with a bang — and not just the red, white and blue kind.
“We are always looking for ways to keep the event fresh while staying true to our mission of bringing the community together in a positive, faith-centered environment,” Killough told The Azle News.
This year, keeping the event “fresh” means two new changes: giving away red, white and blue T-shirts in honor of the nation’s 250th birthday and the implementation of wristbands in order to keep track of attendance.
“Wristbands are required to receive free items throughout the event and will help us better estimate for future planning,” Killough said. “All guests entering the park will receive a free wristband upon arrival. Adults are asked to write a cell phone number on the wristbands of children in their party so we can quickly reunite families if a child becomes separated.”
Even three decades later, the planning process for Follow the Flag remains extensive. With preparations beginning as early as February, Killough said AAMA board members and many community volunteers share their time, talents and resources to help create the donation-funded event. From purchasing the fireworks and securing event insurance to arranging portable restrooms, vendor spaces, parking, and donations of food and drinks, volunteers coordinate the many details that help create the fun-filled event Azle has come to know and love.
“Every hot dog served, every bottle of water handed out, and every firework launched is made possible by people in our community working together,” Killough said. “It truly is a community-wide effort — and that’s what makes Follow the Flag so special.”
The event was initially created by Lew and Sandy Shaffer, who founded and brought Son Shine Ministries to Azle. Killough said the couple was inspired to create an event for families to come and enjoy Christian fellowship and fireworks every Fourth of July at the Son Shine Ministries campus just south of town. As the event grew in popularity every year, it eventually outgrew the property and was entrusted to the AAMA to continue its legacy.
“It (Follow the Flag) is much more than a fireworks show; it is an opportunity for people from across the Azle area to come together as one community,” Killough said. “By providing a free, family-friendly event in a faith-based atmosphere, we create a place where people of all backgrounds can gather, build relationships and celebrate both our faith and our freedom. It is a powerful example of unity amidst diversity and of Christian leaders partnering together to make a positive impact on our community.”
With the event’s longstanding history serving as a testament to its success, Killough said she believes much of its growth stems from its family-friendly atmosphere.
“People know they can come and enjoy a safe, welcoming evening with great entertainment, good food and a sense of community,” she said. “Many families have made it part of their annual Fourth of July tradition, and we love seeing multiple generations come together to celebrate.”
Looking ahead, Killough said she hopes to see more churches become involved with Follow the Flag and serve alongside one another.
“When we unite in the name of Christ and share his love with our neighbors, amazing things can happen,” she added. “That’s really what Follow the Flag is all about.”
Booths at Follow the Flag will be open from 6-8 p.m., with the opening ceremony beginning at 7 p.m. Live music will continue throughout the evening leading up to the fireworks show. Food and refreshments are free while supplies last.
