By The Hays Daily News

RUSSELL -- The community of Russell will gather Saturday for its annual Freedom Fireworks Celebration, which includes a variety of events downtown.

While Independence Day long has been celebrated with the day of old-fashioned fun, this is only the second year featuring an expanded schedule of activities, making for an all-day event, said Vicki Frohling, executive director of the Russell Chamber of Commerce.

"I hope it turns out fun," Frohling said. "That's our goal."

Annual traditions such as the fireworks display and rubber duckie race will return, as well as the second annual Patriotic Parade, featuring residents on golf carts, bikes and scooters. Pets also are invited to participate.

A new event for 2009 is the "Russell's Got Talent" show, which will precede the fireworks show Saturday evening.

Attendance usually is high at the event, with out of town guests visiting for the day.

The following activities are scheduled:

* 8 a.m., Russell Freedom 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk

* 8 a.m., Russell Freedom Horseshoe Tournament

* 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., children's inflatables

* 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., petting zoo

* 9:30 to 11 a.m., sidewalk chalk contest, Dream Theatre

* 11 a.m., second annual Patriotic Parade, Main Street

* 12 to 5 p.m., sidewalk chalk contest, VFW

* 12 to 2 p.m., face painting, VFW

* 12 p.m., popsicles, community picnic, Play Park

* 1:30 p.m., watermelon eating contest

* 1:30 p.m., American Homemade Pie Contest

* 2:30 p.m., free community ice cream social

* 3:30 p.m., bingo

* 5 p.m., cakewalk

* 5:30 p.m., annual rubber duckie race

* 6 p.m., VFW community barbecue fundraiser

* 7 p.m., opening ceremonies and flag dedication

* 7:15 to 9:45 p.m., "Russell's Got Talent"

* 10 p.m., fireworks display.