With floodwaters expected to recede by the Fourth of July, Salute to America festival organizers said they will proceed with the scheduled July 3-4 events in downtown Jefferson City.
Salute to America organizers still plan to shoot fireworks off across the Missouri River at the Jefferson City - Capital Sand Company, event coordinator Penny Smith said.
"We just met with them (Wednesday) and went back over there and looked over everything, and we are good to go," she said. "As far as flooding goes, I've got the emergency services keeping an eye on that, and I've been told by them that it will be down in the 20s (foot) range by the time of the (July) Fourth event - unless some crazy rainstorm hits, which is not in the forecast."
Due to continuing flooding in North Jefferson City, police are reminding residents and visitors of possible road closures, as flooding could cause several streets to close with short notice.
Those wanting to watch the fireworks from the North Jefferson City area are asked to make alternate plans, as authorities anticipate access to the area will be limited.
The Missouri River was expected to crest just below 31 feet Saturday afternoon and begin slowly receding today, according to weekend forecasts from the National Weather Service.
The forecast called for the river to be at 24 feet by Thursday, July 4.
Salute to America organizers will offer free parking Wednesday and Thursday in all state and city parking lots in downtown Jefferson City. There will also be paid parking available in the St. Peter Catholic Church parking lots, located off West Main and Broadway streets.
The prison ghost tours originally scheduled during the Salute to America festivities were canceled due to tornado damage at the Missouri State Penitentiary. Prison tours have been suspended through Aug. 31.
Below is a schedule of the Salute to America events:
Wednesday, July 3
State Capitol tour - 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Lohman's Landing historical site - 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Carnival - 10 a.m.-11 p.m.
Community stage at Madison and East High streets - 4-10 p.m.
Beer garden stage - 4-11 p.m,
Food court on East and West High streets - 4-11 p.m.
Parade - 6-7 p.m.
Opening ceremony at Madison Street stage - 7-7:30 p.m.
Little Mr. and Miss Contest - 7:30-8:30 p.m.
Capitol main stage concert - 8:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 4
State Capitol tour - 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Lohman's Landing historical site - 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Heritage Village at Governor's Garden - 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Kids Zone - 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Madison Street stage - 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Carnival - 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
High Street merchants - 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Food court on East and West High streets - 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
Beer garden stage - 2-10 p.m.
Capitol Main Stage concert - 7-9 p.m.
Red, White and Boom fireworks show - 9:40 p.m.