Benicians can show their patriotism again this year during the city’s two-day Freedom Festival in the downtown area.

The Torchlight Parade opens the celebration at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 3, and this year the Grand Marshal isn’t a single individual, Deborah Meyer, Benicia Main Street event coordinator, said.

Benicia Old Town Theatre Group, which is marking its 50th anniversary as a community theater company, has that designation, Meyer said.

The parade will travel north on First Street, beginning at D Street and ending at the judging area at Benicia City Park at First Street and Military West.

“As a courtesy to First Street businesses, parade enthusiasts are reminded that chairs should not be placed along the parade route until after 9 a.m. the morning of July 3,” Meyer said.

“They are also asked not to tape or tie the chairs together for safety reasons.” Chairs need to be placed far enough from the curb to allow motorists to have access in and out of their cars during the day, she said.

“This parade has seen the turn of two centuries. It is a hometown parade, which includes community organizations, clubs and friends and neighbors waving at each other as the parade progresses up the street.”

Main Street sponsors the Torchlight Parade and the next day’s activities as well, though the nonprofit and the city of Benicia cosponsor the fireworks display July 4.

Once again, families may gather for the city’s Fourth of July Picnic in the Park and fireworks that will take place on the official national holiday, Meyer said.

“The fun begins at noon in Benicia City Park. There is hot food, live entertainment, an open-air market and lots of fun activities for children until 7 p.m.,” she said.

Those attending will hear music and be able to buy arts and crafts items and food. Children can scale a climbing wall, take train rides or play in inflatables.

Tony Turner will perform “The Star Spangled Banner” at noon, after which Mayor Elizabeth Patterson will give a welcome address.

At 1:20 p.m., dancers from Susie Harper School of Dance will entertain those in the park.

Pocket Watch takes the stage at 2:30 p.m., and Tin Man entertains at 5 p.m.

The fireworks display will begin about 9 p.m. at the bottom, or south end, of First Street, Meyer said. Spectators will gather on the First Street green, at the corner of First and B streets, where they can “watch the display under the stars,” she said.

She said donations to help defray the costs of these events are accepted at Benicia Main Street, 90 First St. “Individual patron level sponsors of the Benicia Main Street get two passes to the ‘VIP’ viewing area during the fireworks display,” she added.

Those interested may call Benicia Main Street at 707-745-9791.