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Thunder was heard in the distance and rain poured from the sky, but that didn’t stop a joyous Fourth of July Celebration Monday night.

Cars lined up on Highway 25E hoping to secure a spot for the celebration.

The rain didn’t cancel the show, but only delayed performances.

School of Rock Knoxville took the stage, opening for Shenandoah.

The students from the music education program wowed the crowd with their talents as they played several familiar tunes.

As for the headlining act, the crowd erupted in applause anticipating the country music band.

The band played a few of their classic songs such as “Two Dozen Roses” and played songs off their newest album Every Road which was released in 2020.

Many were excited to see them take the stage as they sang along when their favorite hits were played.

As the band concluded their set, the Firework Show, provided by Terry Law Firm, commenced.

Bright lights filled the air as the firm the biggest show Cherokee Park has seen.

“In an effort to put on something really special for the community, we have literally been working on the fireworks since last fall and have increased our fireworks budget once again,” said Brack Terry in anticipation of the celebration.

Although the weather dampened the event, several community members still enjoyed the festivities.

“Well we have always come to see the fireworks at Cherokee park, it’s been a tradition with our family,” said Sarah Thompson, Morristown native. “We have never missed a year, but this year we thought with the rain and lightning we wouldn’t be able to enjoy it.

“But luckily the rain stopped and the sun came out. We’re really just everything worked out and we can enjoy the show.”

Another attendee wanted to focus on the reason for the celebration, the day the nation was born.

“I think that it’s fun to be here and enjoy the show and the fireworks, but it’s important to realize why we’re here,” said Michael Buchanan, Morristown native.

“We’re here today because so many people gave their lives for the freedoms of this country. People nowadays take the freedom we have in this country for granted. They don’t realize how many other countries wish they had what we have.”

Looking back more than 200 years ago, Buchanan praises the founding fathers for their bravery and dedication to establishing the country.

“Our founding fathers did something no one else could do, they put their lives and their families’ lives on the line to create something much bigger than them. I don’t think they realized what the future would hold, but I’m so thankful to be an American here in the United States.”

Buchanan’s father served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, and he encouraged parents to educate their children and teach them that it was men and women who sacrificed their lives for the country to allow them to have the freedoms they do.

“It’s parents’ job to teach their kids to respect this country and respect those who sacrificed their lives for us to be able to live here,” he said.

As the show concluded, many were already anticipating next year’s celebration.

“We can’t wait to come back next year and enjoy the fireworks,” Grace Stanton, a Morristown native said. “Hopefully next year there will be less rain, but regardless we’ll be here.”