By CHAD COOPER
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Despite intense heat, families gathered at Southern Gap on July 2 for Prater Fire & Rescue’s annual Independence Day fireworks celebration.
With temperatures in the 90s, residents from across Buchanan County came in larger numbers than expected, enjoying the evening with friends, good food, live music, and creating memories before the fireworks lit up the sky. Children were everywhere, laughing and splashing on water inflatables, which became one of the event’s main highlights as kids sought relief from the heat. Others painted colorful chalk drawings on sidewalks while families relaxed in lawn chairs or blankets nearby.
Food vendors saw heavy traffic from opening, with long lines and some selling out of popular items before the night ended. As night fell, excitement grew as fireworks exploded overhead, captivating all ages and lighting up the sky over Southern Gap, culminating in loud applause for another successful community event.
