Looking for the perfect way to spend the 4th of July in the Ozarks? Head to Cherokee Village, Arkansas, for Thunder on Thunderbird 2025, a beloved community celebration held on the scenic shores of Lake Thunderbird.
Kick off your day with a hearty, all-American breakfast at the CV Firefighter’s Pancake Breakfast, hosted at the Baseheart Fire Station from 6:30 a.m. to noon. It’s the perfect way to fuel up for a day full of fun and festivities.
As evening approaches, make your way to Lake Thunderbird for the main attractions. At 7:30 p.m., the Patriotic Boat Parade brings the water to life with stars, stripes, and creative displays. Be sure to sign up early if you want to participate! Then, as night falls, settle in for the grand finale — a fireworks show over the Lake Thunderbird Dam at 9:00 p.m., lighting up the sky in celebration of America’s birthday.
Sponsored by local businesses and community donations, Thunder on Thunderbird is more than an event — it’s a celebration of small-town spirit, community pride, and summer magic. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this is one celebration you won’t want to miss!
Karin Huffman is an Independence County native who graduated from Cushman High School in 1996. Traveling throughout the state is one of her passions, along with writing about her adventures.
Taking over as travel writer for the Ozark Gateway Region is a dream come true for Huffman who lives in the region with her two daughters, Grace and Stella.
As a family, they enjoy canoeing the Poke Bayou, Salado Creek and the many waterways along the White River in Independence County. Camping and hiking throughout the region is a must for them in the spring and fall as well.
Huffman is an avid nature photographer who will do just about anything to find the perfect waterfall shot, and has visited many in the great state. From Twin Falls and the Richland Creek area in Northwest Arkansas to little known places off the beaten path, waterfalls will be found.
Huffman has been a travel writer for the Eye on Independence Magazine as well as a staff writer for the Batesville Guard, and is looking forward to devoting her time to traveling throughout the eight county region that the Ozark Gateway offers.
If you would like to contact Huffman about an adventure or would like to know how to get more information out about your area, contact her at 870-307-5473, karinhuffman78@gmail.com or karinozarkgateway@sbcglobal.net.