Staff Photo by Shane McMillan-- Soddy-Daisy football coach Kevin Orr watchs as a ball just misses the target. The team was doing a dunk tank as a fundraiser for their program.

Sophie Goetz, 4, of Hixson, was not quite sure why Friday was a national holiday, but it involved face paint and bouncy inflatable castles.

The kids’ attractions, food and craft vendors, and live music all lent to the warm, festive Independence Day at the 28th annual Soddy-Daisy Fourth of July Festival and Celebration at Soddy Lake. The festival — part carnival, part fireworks show — was one of the many local celebrations held across the region to celebrate the Fourth of July.

With a little help from her father, Michael Goetz, Sophie said Friday marked the “birthday of the American flag.”

“It’s just a good day, celebrating our independence. We’re just enjoying the day,” he said.

While southern blues band Essential Mama rocked out, Araceli Scales, of Hixson, said July Fourth can be defined by one word: “Independence!”