How does your family like to celebrate Independence Day? We typically enjoy a laid-back holiday with a barbecue at my parents’ place, and we sometimes shoot off fireworks from the driveway or over the pond once the sun goes down.

If you’re looking for something fun to do, here are some local ideas to consider for your family’s Fourth:

Thursday, July 4

Delano 4th of July Celebration
Minnesota’s oldest and largest 4th of July celebration, the city of Delano celebrates each year with four days of events including nightly live music and dancing, sports tournaments, a royalty coronation, and much more.
On the 4th of July itself, you can enjoy the parade at 10:30 am, carnival from noon to 10pm, and family entertainment all afternoon. On July 6th, come back to see a huge fireworks show over Central Park.
More info: delano4th.com

Annandale 4th of July Celebration
Annandale’s 5-day celebration features a carnival, parade, food vendors, music, and of course—fireworks! The 4th of July parade begins at 10am, and fireworks take place at dusk (around 10pm) over Annandale Municipal Park.
More info: annandale4thofjuly.org

Coon Rapids 4th of July Celebration
The Coon Rapids 4th of July celebration runs Tuesday–Thursday with a daily carnival, food trucks, bingo and more, culminating in live music and fireworks on the evening of July 4th. Fireworks begin at 10pm, and you can even grab a sample of them on their website!
More info: coonrapidscommunitystrengthfoundation.com/4th-of-july-celebration

Farmer’s Fourth at Oliver Kelley Farm
Celebrate the most important holiday of the 19th century, the 4th of July, with the Kelley Farm staff. Bring a picnic to enjoy on the front lawn while listening to rousing speeches. Play 19th-century games, enjoy ice cream samples in the Learning Kitchen, and make your own kite to fly and take home.
Cost: $12 for adults, $6 for kids ages 5-17 (4 & under free), $10 for seniors/veterans/college students
More info: mnhs.org/kelleyfarm/activities/calendar/6809

Saturday, July 6

Delano Fourth of July Fireworks ~ 10:30pm
More info: delano4th.com

Elk RiverFest Fireworks ~ 10pm
More info: elkrivermn.gov/elkriverfest