Chad Dorsett/Special to the Independent Mail

Several Seneca children play in the Seneca Fire Department Wall of Water at the city’s Independence Day celebration.

Roughly 10,000 people enjoyed music, food, games and fireworks Saturday at Seneca’s Independence Day celebration at Gignilliat Field.

The event, sponsored by Leader Ford, Bountyland Quick Stops and the city of Seneca, was designed to provide families a safe and festive way to enjoy July Fourth.

“We had a lot of activities for the kids, and everyone seemed to have a good time,” said Seneca Recreation Director Rick Lacey.

Four bands provided the live entertainment at the free community celebration — September Sky, Jethrow’s Advice, The Fabulous Shades and General Johnson and the Chairmen of the Board.

“I thought the bands were great. I really liked each of their performances,” said Matt Sanders of Seneca. “This is my first year to attend the city’s celebration, and I really enjoyed it.”

Inflatables such as bounce houses and giant slides stayed full of children having fun. To keep cool, children could enjoy the Seneca Fire Department Wall of Water.

“This was a fun day,” said Jessica Adams, another Seneca resident. “I loved the bands, the games, and seeing all my friends. It was a fun, safe place to spend the Fourth of July.”

The Seneca High School Student Government Association also used the festival as a place to sell raffle tickets and refreshments.

“We just wanted to try to raise money for some upcoming projects,” said Carson LeCroy, Seneca High student body president. “We will use this money throughout the upcoming school year for banquets and other activities.”

A couple of parents were on hand to assist students in the endeavor.

“Today’s celebration has been great,” said Patti LeCroy, an administrative assistant at the school. “The kids have been working hard to raise money for this year’s projects, such as a bronze Bobcat for the high school.”

After dark, 700 fireworks shells were shot into the sky. The professional fireworks show lasted 20 minutes.

“This is our third year working with the city on this event, and it seems to get bigger and better every year,” said Bruce Fallon of UpstateFireworks.com, the local branch of Pyrotecnico Fireworks of Newcastle, Pa. “Our company loves to be here. This is the coolest job on the hottest day of the year.”