Celebrate the Red, White and Blue at 5 Great 4th of July Events in the Twin Cities

The 4th of July is an annual opportunity to celebrate the freedom we enjoy as Americans with fireworks, carnivals and other lively outdoor activities. Here are some of the top events taking place not far from our Springs at Apple Valley and Springs at Egan Drive communities.

It takes a full week to hold all the events marking the 50th anniversary of the annual Apple Valley Freedom Days. Enjoy favorite summer activities like golf and fishing, or check out the Classic Car Show and Motorcycle Show. Other attractions include live music, carnival rides and a fun run, wrapping up with a parade and fireworks viewing party on July 4.

Eagan's annual celebration combines some traditional all-American fun along with an opportunity to honor the spirit of Independence Day. The center is the site of a full-scale carnival which includes rides, live music, poker tournaments and a bike parade. In addition, the Funfest hosts a Red Cross blood drive each day between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

On July 4th, the downtown Minneapolis waterfront is transformed into one of the largest party sites around. More than 75,000 people attend this annual event staged by the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board. Festivities begin bright and early at 6:30 a.m. with the Twin Cities Half-Marathon. Events and attractions, including live music, food stands, movies and family activities, are featured in several different venues, and the day concludes with a spectacular fireworks show over Water Power Park.

Can't resist marching bands, classic cars and colorful floats? 4th in the Park holds the only Independence Day parade in Saint Paul, and it's also one of the longest-running parades in the state. The day kicks off at 8 a.m. with 2K and 5K runs that lead up to the parade at 11 a.m. Afterwards, head over to Langford Park for games and music along with sack races and other traditional picnic games.

Take a fascinating trip back in time for a glimpse of life in our country's early years. Watch a re-enactment of Colonel Snelling's victory at the Battle of Oak Woods during the War of 1812 along with military dress parades and cannon salutes. Entertainment includes patriotic tunes from a drum-and-fife band and historic games like egg races. Admission is included with your ticket purchase, which is $12 for adults and $6 for kids ages 5 through 17.

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