Keith Urban to headline Freedom Over Texas July 4 celebration on America's 250th birthday

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Keith Urban, Grammy-award winning country superstar and former "American Idol" judge, will headline the 2026 Freedom Over Texas July 4 celebration, sponsored by Bud Light, Dr Pepper and Thomas J. Henry Law, at Eleanor Tinsley Park, Mayor John Whitmire and the City of Houston Mayor's Office of Special Events announced Monday.

Urban is no stranger to bright lights and big stages in Houston. He's performed multiple times at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, with his last stint on the star-shaped stage occurring in 2022.

Four years later, he's been tapped to lead the lineup at Freedom Over Texas that will include Grammy-Award winning Texas trio Los Lonely Boys and multi-platinum rock band Collective Soul as the opening acts.

ABC13 is the exclusive television partner of Freedom Over Texas and will broadcast the event live.

Watch the full press conference of the 2026 Freedom over Texas announcement from Monday afternoon.

Gates will open at 3 p.m., and the event is expected to last until 10 p.m.

Live entertainment will start around 4 p.m.

Keith Urban, this year's headliner, has an incredible catalogue that includes his latest studio release, HIGH.

This year, the Fourth of July falls on a Saturday and will also mark when the United States of America celebrates its 250th birthday.

In honor of the occasion, the city also unveiled a new logo embodying the Fourth of July festivities.

"As we mark America's 250th anniversary, this event is more than a celebration. It is a reflection of the spirit, unity, and pride that define our community. Families, friends, and visitors can expect an unforgettable experience that showcases the energy and heart of Houston," Whitmire said.

Urban is one of the most celebrated artists in country music, and along with four Grammy Awards, has earned 13 Country Music Association, or CMA, awards. With more than 11 billion global streams, the Australian-American singer, songwriter and guitarist is known for chart-topping hits like "Blue Ain't Your Color," "Somebody Like You," and "Wasted Time."

He has only added to his extensive catalogue with his latest studio release HIGH, producing songs such as "Heart Like A Hometown, "Straight Line," "Go Home W U" with Lainey Wilson, and "Messed Up As Me."

But you can warm up your vocals before Urban takes the main stage. Collective Soul is set to bring their signature high-energy, nostalgic performances to fans. Listen out for iconic tunes such as "Shine," "December," and "The World I Know."

Los Lonely Boys, meanwhile, is known for their "Texican rock & roll sound," and you can bet fans will be eager to hear their breakout hit "Heaven."

As in past years, a dazzling fireworks finale will close out the festivities after the live performances.

But this July 4 celebration will already be unlike any other. Set against the backdrop of America's 250th anniversary, the date will fall on the final day of World Cup games in Houston.

To align with that global event, the city is introducing a new element this year, a dedicated Futbol Park located in Sam Houston Park.

Here, fans of all ages can gather to enjoy soccer-themed games and activities, food vendors, photo moments, and plenty of seating and large outdoor screens.

Keep in mind, it's going to be hot.

Attendees are allowed to bring lawn chairs and umbrellas under 40." You can also bring empty containers and fill them via water stations on site at the event.

What else is happening that day?

Freedom Over Texas will again feature a variety of family-friend activations throughout the park.

BUD ZONE: Budweiser will toast Texas and celebrate America's birthday with fresh brew and beverages in their tropical beer garden. This is said to be a great spot for a perfect view of the main stage and spectacular fireworks finale.

DR PEPPER FLAVOR ZONE: Stop by for a Dr Pepper float from the Dr Pepper Parlor and sample many of the tastings offered in this zone. Live music and dancing will also be featured throughout the event at the Dr Pepper Stage.

ALL AMERICAN KID ZONE: Experience new free games, face painting and plenty of interactive educational activities in this zone. DJ London will be spinning to keep the energy going along with strolling artists and your kids' favorite costumed characters. This area has activities for all ages, including toddlers and beyond. You can also visit with our hometown sports teams, including the Roughnecks, Rockets, Dynamo, and Dash.

LIBERTY PARK: This area will feature a tribute to the Armed Forces and First Responders, celebrating the spirit of service and sacrifice at the heart of Independence Day. Guests can enjoy photo opportunities and interactive experiences throughout the space.

How can I get tickets?

Admission is $15 per person. Children aged 12 and under are FREE.

Tickets are available online and at the gates. Applicable service charges apply for online purchases.

What should I know for parking?

Event parking is available for a fee at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts parking garage located at 800 Bagby Street, 77002 -- enter parking garage on Rusk between Houston Avenue and Bagby Street.

More event parking is also available in the Theater District Parking Garages with access on Rusk between Bagby and Smith Streets.

METRO has a newly expanded weekend Park & Ride service that celebration-goers are encouraged to use. You can park outside the Loop and ride into the city.

Soccer fans can also use METRORail for a direct trip from NRG Stadium into downtown for the festivities. Riders are encouraged to plan their trip in advance at RideMETRO.org.

Road closures

This is a big one. Expect closures to begin as early as June 26.

Follow this link to see all closures starting June 26 - July 5.