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   The celebration of America’s independence is here once again! Each year, communities of the Lakeland area come together in the appreciation of this hallowed anniversary with different traditions.

   Lakeland’s Chambers of Commerce have planned an abundance of activities for you and your friends and family to enjoy.

   Friday, July 4th in Longville will be an action-packed day with the annual parade, food, games and more.

   Main Street will be full of entertainment for people of all ages! The city parking lot will have free inflatable games for the kids starting at 10 a.m. 

   Parade staging begins at 10 a.m. at the ACE Lumber Yard. An hour later, the annual parade will make its way down Highway 84 and County Rd. 5.

   The Docksider will be hosting a beer garden for the adults at 11 a.m. while the kids are participating in the fun and games on Main Street. 

   Following the parade on Main Street, you can visit with X-Game gold medalist “Launchin’” Levi LaVallee down the block at 1 p.m. 15 minutes later, a cornhole tournament will kick off.

   During the day, there will be plenty of meal options to choose from! A large food court will open at 10 a.m. with a selection from the Longville Chamber, Longville Lions and food trucks – or you can stop by local restaurants and businesses to catch a bite to eat. 

   Once dusk hits, a beautiful fireworks show sponsored by Longville’s Chamber of Commerce will light the night sky over Girl Lake with live music on the lawn. Come by on boat or by car, they are unforgettable!

   To those who are staying local for the weekend, Longville offers events on the 5th and 6th. A four-man sand volleyball tournament will take place at Stuart Park with registration starting at 9 a.m. 

   Hackensack, nestled on the shores of Birch Lake offers a Fourth of July boat parade that will begin at 1 p.m. Another wonderful fireworks show will be held at dusk on July 12th, as part of Hackensack’s Sweetheart Days events. 

   Head up north to Walker on Independence Day for a full patriotic experience! 

   Walker’s annual Fourth of July parade kicks off with a kiddie parade at 1 p.m. 

   Take advantage of the beauty of Walker City Beach with free watermelon and enjoy the shores of iconic Leech Lake. Walker’s Fourth of July celebration also offers a beer garden, a fish fry, brats, hotdogs, curds and other great foods to fuel your fun. Live music will be played by Power Play from 4 to 10 p.m. Finish off your fun-filled day with a spectacular fireworks show at dark over Leech Lake!

   Whichever community you choose to spend your day with this Independence Day, there will be food, fun, games and fireworks for the whole family to enjoy. Be safe, respectful and responsible this holiday and, as always, have a fabulous day expressing your patriotism!

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