RB's Getting into the ‘Spirit of the Fourth’

The annual Spirit of the Fourth two-day celebration in Rancho Bernardo is fast approaching, a some parts have already begun. This year's theme is "Salute the Troops—Honoring the Military Family."

“Our mission is to provide a celebration that keeps with the spirit of the Founding Fathers and relays the excitement of our nation's independence," said Steven DeMatteo, the Spirit of the Fourth president, in a statement.

Though the festivities official start on Tuesday, July 3 with the Freedom Club Concert in Webb Park, one popular activity is underway: RB Idol.

Loosely modeled after American Idol, RB Idol gives amateur singers a chance to show their skills before thousands of community members. The competition—7 p.m. Thursday, June 28 at the Poway Performing Arts Center—will feature 20 performers. Singers must be between the ages of 8 and 18. The top prize is $500 and the top three winners can perform at the fireworks show on July 4. Competition tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door.

Here's what else is planned:

• Freedom Club Concert, 6 p.m., Tuesday, July 3 at Webb Park: The concert features the U.S. Marine Corps Depot Brass Quintent at Webb Park. Bring chairs and/or blankets, plus food or purchase a picnic meal from Chick-Fil-A. The concert is free.
• Pancake Breakfast, 7 -11 a.m. Wednesday, July 4 at Webb Park: The breakfast benefits the Veterans Village of San Diego. Cost: $5 adults; children ages 4-12 are $3; and children under 4 and military in uniform receive free breakfast.
• Wheels of Freedom Car Show, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 4 in Webb Park: Hosted by the Poway Cruisers Car Club, the show will feature 130 cars and award 20 trophies for excellence, plus recognition for Best of Show and Best Decorated Car or Truck.
• Community Fair, 7 a.m. Wednesday, July 4: Kettle corn, hot dogs, frozen lemonade and more can be found at the fair, which also will feature local vendors. Local groups also will provide entertainment.
• Spirit of the Fourth Parade: The parade runs along Acena Drive, Rancho Bernardo Road and Bernardo Center Drive, featuring floats and perfomers on July 4.
• Entertainment and Fireworks, 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 4 at : Kristi Krause, a local singer who made it to the Hollywood round on American Idol the past two seasons, will perform at 6 p.m., followed by the winners of this year's RB Idol contest. Sara and Sean Watkins of Nickel Creek also will perform. Fireworks begin at 9 p.m.

For more, visit spiritofthefourth.org.