Thank you to the St. Matthews community for a fantastic inaugural St. Matthews Freedom Festival with 2,500 people in attendance. For five hours on Friday, July 3, Westport Road was filled with energy, laughter and neighbors coming together, which made for a memorable event. With the road closed from Chenoweth Lane to St. Matthews Ave., the area transformed into a true community gathering place to kick off the Independence Day weekend in honor of America 250.

The action started strong with the Little Patriot Fun Run, where young runners were cheered across the finish line and welcomed with one of the night’s biggest highlights – the fire truck splash pad. From there, families spread out and enjoyed the attractions at their own pace.

The Family Fun Zone stayed busy all night with inflatables, giant games and nonstop activities for all children. Nearby, Touch a Truck and displays of military vehicles drew steady crowds, while custom cars added another popular stop for visitors throughout the evening.

More than 40 vendor booths lined the streets with food, craft vendors and local goods, while three live bands kept the atmosphere upbeat and relaxed. The beer garden stayed full as guests enjoyed the entertainment.

What stood out most was the feeling throughout the night. Families stayed longer than planned, friends ran into each other along the route and the space carried an inviting, easygoing energy that reflected the best of this community.

Behind the scenes, the St. Matthews Fire & Rescue Benevolence Fund and Foundation 31, benefiting the St. Matthews Police Department, were supported financially. The strong turnout illustrated “community supporting community” in action.

A heartfelt thank-you goes to HB Productions, presenting sponsor Independence Bank, the City of St. Matthews, Chamber St. Matthews, Tin Roof, Drake’s, Delta Dental, Norton Healthcare, Morris Pointe, Heaven Hill, Tito’s, Fall City Beer, volunteers, vendors, supporters and first responders who made this possible.

The St. Matthews Freedom Fest wasn’t just well attended – it was a true celebration and showing of community spirit.