Jennifer Nettles announced as headliner for Southwest Airlines Freedom over Texas

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- We now know who will headline this year's Southwest Airlines Freedom over Texas in downtown Houston.

It will be Grammy- and American Music Award-winning artist Jennifer Nettles, formerly of the band Sugarland, who is launching her solo career.

Houston Mayor Annise Parker announced this morning. Nettles won't be the only act rocking the downtown stages on the Fourth. There will be four stages featuring local artists.

"We try to pack as much fun in as we can, so it's not just coming to listening to the concert," said Mayor Parker. "It's multiple activities, the kid zone, the military hardware. There's a beer garden. There's great festival food and just interacting with fellow Houstonians."

This is the 28th year for the downtown Houston Fourth of July party. Thousands of people are expected to be out to take advantage of the fun, food, festivities and fireworks.

Tickets are $5 until June 2. Kids under 5 are free.

The event will be Friday, July 4, from 4pm until 10pm at Eleanor Tinsley Park. If you can't make it downtown for the show, we'll have live coverage on ABC-13 beginning at 7pm.

We've got full details on the event on abc13.com.