By Debbie Robinson

news@joplinglobe.com

Thousands of area families spilled into area parks Saturday to celebrate Independence Day with music, hot dogs and fireworks.

At Landreth Park in Joplin, organizers of Freedom Fest were anticipating a crowd of more than 30,000 people to sit on lawn chairs, listen to several bands and dine on hamburgers, funnel cakes, pizza and hot dogs, said Michelle Tessman with the Joplin Parks and Recreation Department.

“I think it’s very important to hold community events, where families can bring their kids and it’s free,” said Beth Peacock, event coordinator who also works for the city.

With support from several sponsors, she said, the city managed to spend $10,700 for about a 20-minute aerial display at dusk from Dover Hill, she said.

Numerous cities throughout the country canceled their annual fireworks displays this year because of declining revenues since the recession began.

“We just tightened our belts,” Peacock said.

The city has held the event in Landreth Park for about the past 15 years, she said.

“It’s just something we can do for the citizens of Joplin,” she said.

Jody and Gina Hendrix, of Joplin, arrived about 30 minutes early with their 5-year-old son, Benjamin, who was enjoying ice cream and playground equipment.

“I like the fact that it’s in a park, and it’s good family entertainment,” Jody Hendrix said.

In Seneca, organizers of the holiday celebration brought back the popular “Seneca Idol” singing competition, based on the TV sensation “American Idol.”

Mackensie Powers, 11, was one of 26 entries in the event that was held Saturday afternoon at Seneca High School.

“I’ve loved singing since I was 3 years old,” Mackensie said.