Shirland's sixth Freedom Festival celebrated Fourth of July with spirit

Setting the scene for Independence Day, Shirland's sixth annual Freedom Festival returned on Saturday, June 28, 2025. The event was organized by Shirland Fireworks and presented by Freedom Events, Inc.

Music of different styles filled the air: Austin Karr Acoustics, Jacoby, and When Pigs Fly.

Rows of vendors included WC Build A Buddy, Rockford Fishing Tightlines, Avon by James and Sandy. Doll Designs, Angel Creek Arts, Bloom Creations, Stephanie's Creations, Doggie Neckware, remarKable Creations Made With Love, SS Kreative Vinyl Crafts, Heart and Soul Painting with Lorraine, Foraged, Denise Heller Croched Items, Moon Children, Marki Miller Crafts, Debra Kowitzke- Bee Hive &Crafts. Mary Davidson Towels, M's Signs Up cycles and More, and My Tuto Cute Boutique.

Food booths offered a nice variety for every taste and palate with Magic BBQ, Fry Babies, Tacos Don Chato, Pizza Fresca,Bombon's Ice Cream, and Bear Grounds coffee.

After a full day the event concluded with a spectacular fireworks display.

Shirland came alive again on Independence Day as the day began with an awesome pancake breakfast made and served by members of the Shirland United Methodist Church.

One-hundred and forty participants, age ranges from three to 76 went into a friendly competition during the first annual Stumpy's 5K run, or 1K walk depending on preferences. The event was organized by Aaron and Emily Hall. The race started at Shirland School, raced to Stumpy and returned to the school.

A total of $4,000 was raised from the event which is being donated to Shirland School.

The top three winners were Daniel Quiros, first place with a time of 19:55:19, Ethan Hall with a time of 21:02;77, and Jessica Garcia with a time of 21:28:90. The top three winners received a gift card to Blain's Farm & Fleet and a Stumpy trophy.

Organizers and competitors are already looking forward to next year.

Rain failed to deter the spirit of spectators who lined Shirland's Main Street. After a 10 minute rain delay, fun rolled down the parade route.

Marianne Eshleman served as the parade chair, with help from the Shirland Auxiliary and Shirland Fire Department.

The Rockton American Legion Walter Graham Post #332 started off the parade, meeting with respectful applause.

Legion Auxiliary members rode in style and added to the excitement of the day by throwing candy.

Parade Marshal Helen Radant smiled and waved at the crowd. The Young At Heart Court waved at crowds.

Floats and a variety of vehicles added to the aura of the parade.

Hinterland Fire, Harlem Roscoe and Northwest departments used interesting sirens and lights. The Winnebago County Sheriff's K-9 Unit was on the parade scene.

The Owen Blue Bonnets 4H Club walked the route. The Owen Black Bears rode in a detailed float.

Sky Carp mascot Poopsie greeted the crowds. The band, When Pigs Fly, played tunes of different genres.

Solutions Bank was one of a few businesses who joined in the festivities.

Candy, freeze pops, and frisbees were tossed or given out.

Rows of vintage tractors rolled through, many carrying a family name.

Connie Gleasman held a sign reading, Honoring Our Heroes.

At the parade's conclusion, the American Legion Post #332 Rife Squad gave a final 21 gun salute.

"It has been a few years since we have experienced the weather we had this morning for the parade," said parade chair Marianne Eshleman.

"We teamed up, made decisions as a team and everything went as planned. We are proud of our small town, big celebration," she added. "We know many people have traditions that go back many years to start off the holiday with the Shirland parade and we are so grateful for the turnout we had."

"We thank the parade participants and all of the spectators who came out, rain or shine and celebrated with us."

The 50/50 raffle was a success. Congratulations to Dennis McKee who was this year's raffle winner.

"We can't wait to see what next year brings," Eshleman said. "Mark your calendar now for July 3, 2026!"