The Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival has announced that Brittany Barnhart will become the nonprofit’s new executive director, effective Sept. 3.
Ms. Barnhart, who has served most recently as events manager for The Gazette, will succeed Karol Shepherd, who began with the Freedom Festival organization in 2021, as executive director.
“With strong community connections and a passion for the festival, including serving on our board last year, Barnhart will bring innovative ideas and a new perspective,” Freedom Festival said in a LinkedIn post announcing the move. “The board of directors is excited for her leadership.”
The Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation serving Cedar Rapids and a significant portion of Eastern Iowa. The group’s stated mission is “to celebrate the quality of life in Eastern Iowa by providing safe, affordable and fun annual events that embody the spirit of patriotism and a sense of community and family.”
The idea for the Freedom Festival was first conceived of by Peter Teahen in 1983. The festival begins each year on Flag Day, June 14, and continues for the three weeks leading up to and including the Celebration of Freedom fireworks display on Independence Day, July 4.
More than 400,000 area residents and visitors attend the Freedom Festival each year, according to festival organizers.
The Freedom Festival receives substantial support from the City of Cedar Rapids, but the organization is a completely separate 501(c)3 nonprofit entity.
All of the festival’s programming is either low or no cost, helping to ensure that the entire community is able to celebrate patriotism and community.
