Fourth of July festivities set

The annual Fourth of July fireworks in Carbondale is expected to draw another large crowd, so those planning to attend Monday evening's festivities should arrive early.

Fireworks will be shot off from the Abe Martin baseball field at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, south of the SIU Arena. The display starts at 9:10 p.m., according to the Department of Public Safety.

Admission is free.

Parking will be available in the Arena parking lots. Lots 52 and 37, west of the Arena along Douglas Drive, also will be available. Police will restrict traffic along Saluki Drive near the ball field during the fireworks display, and the intersections of U.S. 51 and Saluki Drive, and West Pleasant Hill Road and Arena Drive will be closed to incoming traffic during the show.

The rain date is Tuesday, July 5.

Prior to the fireworks show, Maestro Edward M. Benyas, a professor in the School of Music, will lead the Southern Illinois Music Festival orchestra, soloists and chorus in the Outdoor All-American Music Concert. The concert starts at 7:30 p.m., at the Arena entrance, and features the works of Leonard Bernstein, Aaron Copland, George Gershwin, and John Williams.

University policies are observed at this non-alcoholic event. No alcohol, glass, pets or fireworks are allowed.