06/25/2025
Holiday Weekend to Feature Air Show and Fireworks in Athens
Athens is planning a double-header of family fun for the Fourth of July weekend, with two major events that celebrate both sky and community.
The weekend starts Friday, July 4, with the 2nd Annual Thunder Over East Texas Air Show at the Athens Municipal Airport. Gates open at 3 p.m. and the show begins at 6 p.m. This year’s lineup includes the United States Air Force F-16 “Viper” Demonstration Team, Randy Ball flying his MiG-17, the Titan Aerobatic Team, and more.
General admission is $25 for adults, $10 for children ages 5 to 12, and free for kids 4 and under. Reserved seating is available for $60 and limited to 300 seats. Parking is $5 cash. Proceeds benefit the Cedar Creek Veterans Foundation (CCVF), with net funds supporting veterans organizations across East Texas.
Advance tickets for general admission and reserved seating can be purchased online from the CCVF website. General admission tickets can also be purchased in Athens at First State Bank, McDonalds, Cowboy Headquarters, Elder Dodge, and The Texan. In person ticket sales allow you to purchase an adult general admission ticket and receive a child’s ticket free. Only general admission tickets will available for purchased at the gate. thunderovereasttexas.com
On Sunday, July 6, the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center will host the return of Fireworks at the Fisheries, one of Athens’ most popular community events. The celebration comes just days after the center reopens following a major renovation.
The event is presented in partnership with the City of Athens. Admission is free beginning at 5 p.m., with fireworks scheduled to begin just after dark. Visitors can enjoy fishing, food vendors, and explore the upgraded exhibits and facilities.
The Angler’s Pavilion will be open until 8:30 p.m. for anyone who wants to fish. No license is required. Guests may bring their own poles and bait, but TFFC rules still apply:
-- Hooks must be single and barbless, or have barbs smashed flat.
-- Cut bait and live freshwater organisms are not allowed.
Pets, alcohol, to***co products, and pop-up canopies are not allowed on the property. A traffic plan will be in place, with Marina Drive rerouted and exit routes restricted to left-turn-only and right-turn-only at designated points.