Image courtesy Beverly & Pack

July 4, 2010 – Lucky for us, the 4^th of July is on a weekend again, which means that many of us in the Fargo Moorhead area will have several days to take advantage of all of the events taking place, without having to ask for the day off from work.  I have listed several things for you to look at and hopefully, no matter which direction you’re heading in this coming weekend, you’ll have something fun to take in!

*  Topping the list this year is the 38^th Annual 4^th of July celebration at MSUM.  Pared down again this year, due to budge issues, the fireworks display promises to fill the sky with lights and sounds that will fill the night with oohs and awwws.  This event never disappoints and is a staple in the Fargo Moorhead area!   In addition to the fireworks display, there will be several other things happening this day.

Starting at 8a, the 10K Run & Kids Firecracker Trot will begin.  You will need to register for this event so be sure to do that here. Concessions will be available for sale,  starting at 6:30p at Nemzek Hall and stadium, offered by MSUM athletics.

7p The Patriotic Parade will start.  You need to register for this event as well so be sure to do that by filling out this form. The parade route begins on 14^th Street and 9^th Avenue South, north to 6^th Avenue, east to 17^th Street, south to 9^th Avenue and then back to 14^th Sreet.

7:30p will signal the beginning of the Lake Agassiz Concert Band AND inflatable games for the kids, which will be located on the south side of Nemzek Stadium, will be going on until 10p.

7:45p the Decorated Bike Parade for kids will begin at the Nemzek Stadium large flag pole.  The first 100 kids will receive a treat bag.

8:30p the Front Fenders will play.  They are an awesome band to listen to and watch!

9:30p program

9:45p The Front Fenders will resume and finally at

10:30 (approximately) the Fireworks Display by RES Specialty Pyrotechnics.

For more information, visit their website.

* Heading north on I29, the Sertoma Fourth of July on Sunday is another grand extravaganza that will take place in downtown Grand Forks on the Greenway.  There is a parade, contests, games, petting zoo, a clown, martial arts demonstrations and so much more!  There really is something for everyone.  The day is concluded with the 51^st Annual Free Fireworks Show at approximately 10:30p.  Take a look at this flyer if you want to get a better idea of how much they have to offer!

*If you’re more interested in kicking back and watching a rodeo, check out the Fort Ransom Stampede Rodeo on July 3^rd and 4^th.   A rodeo and Street Dance will be held at 7 p.m. Saturday, at the Fort Ransom Arena in Fort Ransom, ND.  Then on Sunday, July 4^th, a parade will start at noon down Main Street, with another rodeo starting at 2p.

* About 40 miles east of Fort Ransom, or 55 miles southwest of Fargo,  you can check out the McLeod Fourth of July Parade & Picnic.  Starting at 2p,  residents and surrounding communities come out in full force to celebrate America’s birthday.  There are many floats, vintage tractors and cars and even horse drawn wagons, all taking part in the parade.  Immediately following the parade the community offers a good old-fashioned picnic!

* South on Hwy 75, you can check out another Old Fashion celebration at the Bagg Bonanza Farm.  Located 13 miles west of Wahpeton, near Mooreton, ND, you’ll find games, food, entertainment and concessions, from 10a to 5p.  There is a gate admission for this event.  Call 701-274-8989 or 701-642-2411 for more information.

* If you’ll be in the Minnesota lakes country, you may be interested in the Detroit Lakes Fireworks Display.  This takes play on the Detroit Lakes city beach and is a spectacular fireworks display that can be seen from miles away.

* If you’re heading East, stop in for some fun at Walker’s Old Fashioned Fourth of July on Sunday in Walker, MN from 10a-11p, at the Walker City Park on Hwy 371.  The day kicks off with a kiddie parade at 1:45p, which allows the kids to show off their achievements as they show their Scout uniform, twirl a baton or any other skill they have.  The 4^th of July Parade starts at 2p and will include clowns, jugglers, homemade floats, antique cars and more.  This fun filled day also includes a fish fry, games, food and local bands throughout the evening.   The fireworks will be shot off over Leech Lake, filled with spectators in boats, bringing an end to a marvelous celebration.

Be sure to take in one of these events as you celebrate our nation’s birthday this year!  Stay safe and enjoy the day!