The Freedom 5K, bike parade, and fireworks highlighted Independence Day activities in Knoxville on Thursday.

Despite some early rainfall, the morning started with a flag raising ceremony and the Knoxville Police Department Freedom 5K followed by a pancake breakfast at the fire station. The Knoxville American Legion Post shot volleys to kick off the 5K, which Knoxville Police Chief Aaron Fuller says is a great event to kick off the 4th of July holiday.

“It is nice for the police department and the police officers association to have an event for people to come out, something that is active and healthy to do during the 4th of July, to really kick off the 4th of July. It’s just nice to be part of the community and provide a community event on this day.”

The bike parade followed the 5K, starting at Knoxville High School and ending at Young’s Park. Kids participating in the bike parade decorated their bikes in patriotic fashion, and received prizes for the best decorated bike. There was a hot dog meal and treats available for the bike riders and community members at the finish line. The evening concluded with fireworks being shot off at dusk from the Knoxville Airport.