James Sylvester II said his family came to the park around 2 p.m. to make sure they found “a good parking spot and even better place to sit at.”

The group has been driving from Morgan’s Point since “they first started the celebration,” Sylvester said.

At the pond, a group of nine children cast lines into the water and reeled in a few, small perch for their efforts.

“We’re using corn to catch them,” said D.J. Williams. Next to Williams was 5-year-old Donzel Watts with only a couple feet of fishing line and a hook. Watts didn’t need a fancy rod and reel to master this sport.

“I caught one,” Watts said with a grin as he walked over and pointed at the bucket he put his tiny trophy in.

Watts tried to grab the fish, but it seemed the fish had learned from his previous encounter and swam as fast as possible within the confines of his container.

When asked if they were going to wait for the fireworks, the answer was a simple but loud one.

“Yes!” exclaimed all nine before turning back to the pond and more important matters.

Although most people tried to get as close to the stage as possible, Helen and Fleetwood Brown used a little strategic planning when they chose their spot.

The Browns found a large shade tree on the outskirts of the park and planted their huge rainbow umbrella as if it were an explorer’s flag of discovery.

“We like to get a good spot and watch all the people coming in and out,” Ms. Brown said about their choice to sit a distance from the park’s main activities.

The Browns’ grandson, Todd Morris, relaxed in the breeze as his grandmother recalled the previous night’s slumber party.

“We had a whole bunch of boys sleeping over last night,” Ms. Brown said. “They had fun, but they were definitely boys, if you know what I mean.”

Back in front of the stage a group of children emerged out of nowhere and a football game broke out. At first it was a bit uncoordinated, but that was only until Temple police officer McNeil Fairy joined the game.

Officer Fairy took over as quarterback and led his group of 8-year-olds to a stirring victory over the opposing team.

After the game cleared out, the park filled up as spectators waited for the evening’s program to begin. Temple Mayor Bill Jones III opened the God and Country ceremony with a few words of welcome.

“Thanks to all of you for coming out and celebrating the 232nd birthday of this great nation,” Jones said.

The mayor also took a moment to recognize “everyone in the audience who has or is serving in the military” as the crowd cheered.

Jones ended his comments by reading the last line of the Declaration of Independence, in which Thomas Jefferson wrote, “And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.”

Jones then added, “God bless Texas. God bless the nation. Now, have a great time.”