The 4th of July 5K Firecracker Footrace returns to Heartland Park for its 48th annual start to the day. Last year’s race was the biggest ever, with more than 900 runners crossing the starting line. Online registration ends at 11:59 p.m. July 2. Walk-up registrations will be accepted at Heartland Park July 3 from 6:15 to 8 p.m. and again on July 4 from 7 to 8:30 a.m. The race starts at 9 a.m., with a free Kids Fun Run at 10:15 a.m. For more information and to register, click here.
Patriotism, tradition, and community come together at the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce 4th of July Parade. The parade of more than 70
participants will feature the theme, “Salute to the Troops – Heroes in Our Hearts.” The parade starts at 11 a.m. on Fair Avenue near the main entrance to the fairgrounds, marches east on 2nd Street to Main Avenue, continues south on Main to 8th Street, and finishes west on 8th Street to Fair Avenue. The announcer’s stand is located on the second block of Main. A highlight this year will be a flyover by a P-51 Mustang at the beginning of the parade, timed with the singing of the National Anthem. Don’t miss it!
Fish, fun, and prizes await at a new event—the Stars and Stripes Youth Fishing Derby at Red Bridge Park, rain or shine. Registration for ages 12 and under begins at 12:30 p.m., with a free meal served from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. for registrants and their families. The fishing contest will run from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., with free activities and games for kids as well.
A City of Park Rapids-sponsored 4th of July Picnic in honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary will start at 2 p.m. in Depot Park. Volunteers will serve free hot dogs. In the spirit of an old-fashioned July 4th celebration, join in games including three-legged races, sack races, and Frisbee tosses. Guests are asked to bring their own non-alcoholic beverages and a chair or blanket.
Need dessert? Youth Emergency Shelter & Supports (YESS) invites you to a Cake and Cookie Walk from 2 to 3 p.m. at the basketball court between Hugo’s and Depot Park. For $5, you can walk until you win a homemade treat.
Jokela ProWest has been Minnesota’s largest rodeo producer for 47 years. With a longstanding passion for rodeo and a commitment to tradition, Jokela ProWest has brought a piece of the Western lifestyle to the Headwaters of the Mississippi. PRCA Rodeo events are scheduled for July 1–4, with PRCA Xtreme Bulls providing thrills on July 3. Gates open at 5 p.m.; performances begin at 7 p.m. For information and tickets, click here.
The Park Rapids Area Community Band will perform familiar marches and show tunes and honor our military branches with an Armed Forces Salute during a pre-fireworks concert at 7:30 p.m. in Heartland Park.
As a grand finale celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, enjoy the Rotary Fireworks display at dusk over the Fish Hook River. Bring a chair or blanket to Heartland Park or Red Bridge Park, or watch from along the river. The fireworks can also be seen from many locations throughout the Park Rapids area.
