How does your family like to celebrate Independence Day? We typically enjoy a barbecue with my extended family and sometimes shoot off fireworks from the driveway or over the pond once the sun goes down.

If you don’t have plans yet, here are three fun local ideas to consider for your family’s Fourth:

Delano Fourth of July Celebration – Parade, Fireworks, and more!
Minnesota’s oldest and largest Fourth 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 Fourth of July itself, you can enjoy the parade at 10:30 am, carnival from noon to 5pm, family entertainment all afternoon, and a huge fireworks show at 10:30 pm over Central Park.
More info: delano4th.com

Farmer’s Fourth at Oliver Kelley Farm
To celebrate the most important holiday of the mid-19th century, Fourth of July, join the farm staff for a day filled with 19th century games, races, and more. While you’re there, tour the historic farmstead, see the animals, interact with costumed staff as they work the house and fields, ride the trolley along the nature trails, take part in crafts, and sample ice cream. (Bring your own picnic lunch.)
Cost: $12 for adults, $6 for kids ages 5-17 (under 4 free), $10 for seniors/active military/veterans/college students
More info: mnhs.org/kelleyfarm/activities/calendar/5424

Coon Rapids 4th of July Celebration
The Coon Rapids 4th of July celebration actually runs Monday–Wednesday 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! (link below)
More info: coonrapidscommunitystrengthfoundation.com/4th-of-july-celebration