It’s hot outside, but these July events in Bossier Parish are even hotter! Fun awaits all ages with free activities, Independence Day celebrations, sports, concerts, and more. Celebrate the summer with the following events in Bossier:

Free Bowling

With school out for the summer, there are opportunities to get the kids active for free. Surge Entertainment is offering free bowling to children aged 14 and under. If you are age 15 and up, you can bowl for $5 per person.

Holiday Lanes and its Kids Bowl Free program gives kids 30 minutes of free bowling from July through Aug. 31. You can register HERE.

When: All of July, beginning at 11 a.m.

Where: Surge — Pierre Bossier Mall & Holiday Lanes — Old Minden Road 

Christmas in July Toy Drive

Flying Heart Brewing and Pub is offering a special event to support the community throughout July. A toy drive will be held July 3, 22, and 29 for Toys for Tots Marines. Those who drop off a new, unwrapped toy will get a free beer token from Flying Heart on behalf of their generosity.

When: July 3, 22, and 29 from 5-8 p.m.

Where: Flying Heart Brewing and Pub in the East Bank District

See more on Facebook.

Freedom Fest

Freedom Fest is an annual celebration of God and country with fireworks, live music, and family-friendly activities spread across multiple locations in the region, including Bossier Cypress Lake and South Bossier Park. The Louisiana Boardwalk will host a special event with face painting, bounce houses, a DJ, food trucks, and lighted glasses/glow foam sticks.

When: July 4, 5-10 p.m.

Where: Louisiana Boardwalk, Cypress Lake, and South Bossier Park

Get tickets HERE.

Aries Spears in Concert

The comedy legend brings his experience of more than 20 years entertaining audiences to Bossier City. The podcaster and star of “Mad TV” and CNN’s “See It Loud” docuseries will use his wit, characters, and sense of humor in this special, adults-only stand-up concert.

When: July 5, 8 p.m.

Where: Margaritaville Resort and Casino

Get tickets HERE. 

Ashanti in Concert

The Grammy-award-winning artist will bring her unique mix of R&B to the stage. Since 2002, Ashanti has released six studio albums and gained international fame for her hit songs. She is known for several hit songs like “Foolish,” “Baby,” and “Rock Wit U.” In addition to her music career, Ashanti has featured on the big screen in films including “John Tucker Must Die” and “Coach Carter.” 

When: July 11, 8 p.m.

Where: Horseshoe Casino and Hotel

Get tickets HERE. 

Red River FC vs. MS Brilla

The local USL League Two soccer team features athletes on the verge of the pros squaring off in a fun, intense match in our backyard. Families can also enjoy pre-game festivities with food trucks, local vendors, and family attractions. Plus, halftime entertainment makes this a full evening of fun.

When: July 12, 5 p.m.

Where: M.D. Ray Field in Bossier City

Find out more HERE.

Red River Balloon Rally

The annual family-friendly celebration of colorful, fun hot air balloons brings indoor and outdoor events with music, racing, vendors, balloon rides, a kid’s zone, food trucks, and nightly fireworks.

More than two dozen will light up the night sky with the Balloon Glow, face off in the Louisiana State Ballooning Championship, and give attendees the thrill of a tethered balloon ride.

Look for the huge indoor air-conditioned vendor room brought to you by the Bossier City Farmers Market. This special market features 70-plus local vendors and makers with art, jewelry, baked goods, and more.

When: July 18 and 19, from 5-10 p.m.

Where: Louisiana Downs Casino and Racetrack

Find out more HERE.

Shreveport Anime Fest

The can’t-miss event of the year for fans of anime, manga, and pop culture. This convention features exhibitors offering special candy, magazines, toys, video games, cosplay, art, and apparel. In addition, voiceover stars from anime and fandom-related celebrities will be available for special meet-and-greets with attendees.

When: July 20, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Hilton Garden Inn in Bossier City

Find out more HERE.

Parker McCollum in Concert

The award-winning country sensation is bringing his What Kinda Man Tour to Bossier with Kameron Marlowe and special guest Laci Kaye Booth. See these rising stars light up the stage as Parker headlines with hits like “Burn It Down,” “Pretty Heart,” and “Handle On You.”

When: July 24, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Brookshires Grocery Arena

Get tickets HERE. 

Daddy Daughter Princess Ball

Dads and their little princesses are invited to make a magical night of unforgettable memories with dress up, dance, and other activities. This celebration features a dinner fit for royalty, photo opportunities with beloved princesses, dance in a fairytale setting, and activities like facepainting and arts and crafts.

When: July 26, from 5-7 p.m.

Where: Airline Baptist Church

Get tickets HERE.