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5 1/2 Things About the Fourth of July

An American flag hoisted on a pole to the right with summer trees to the left in the foreground

Campus Scenes, American Flag, Summer, Kristen McPeek Photo

Let me describe the perfect day to you. Friends, family, hot weather, hot dogs, sparklers and a cool soda in hand. Sounds about right! We’ve rounded up some events from the whole state so you can pick and choose the best places to celebrate the Fourth of July.

1) Of course, fireworks!

A free fireworks celebration synced to music on 107.1 K-HITS in Ann Morrison park is at 10:15 p.m. Make sure to find a spot at the park (or up above the city) early to get a great view. There will also be other firework displays going off around the valley — and beyond — in Meridian, Caldwell, McCall, Coeur d’Alene and more.

2) BBQ and food

And what else is the Fourth of July known for? Yeah, killer eats too. If you decide to check out the celebrations in Boise or Meridian, they’ll have food trucks and vendors on site. Food served up fresh and you don’t even have to pack a picnic.

3) Parades, galore!

We love a good Fourth of July parade. I mean, who doesn’t? Join in on the fun at the Idaho Fourth of July Parade from Boise at 10 a.m. You can even get breakfast at the Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance at 7 a.m. You can also check some spectacular parades across the state. The American Heroes Parade is happening in Coeur d’Alene, the Days of the Old West Parade in Sun Valley, and the Independence Parade in Caldwell.

4) A music festival — for FREE

You heard that right! Brundage resort, in McCall, is hosting a free music festival from 10:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. on July 4. So, if you’re thinking about a road trip over the holiday weekend, this might be a fun one to check out.

5) A patriotic run

If you’re feeling adventurous, participate in a 4th of July virtual race, You can choose to complete a 1M, 1K, 5K, or 10K run, submit your time and receive a medal in the mail. Choose your own course! At least 15% of the proceeds from registration will go towards Home for our Troops, who build homes fro injured veterans.

5 1/2 ) Celebrate Idaho statehood day too

We officially became a state on July 3, 1890. I know! Neat, right? So, while celebrating Independence Day, give a little cheer for Idaho too.

Meme of a giant potato on the back of a truck that says "Meanwhile in Idaho".

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