What to Do for the 4th of July in and Around Rochester

Are you looking for a patriotic way to celebrate the Fourth of July? Whether you’re want to take a day trip to a nearby city, or make a memorable evening of it right in Rochester, you’ll find plenty of options for the summer festivities.

1. Experience a Historic Celebration
21899 County 118, Preston

Head to Historic Forestville to experience Independence Day as it would have happened in 1899. The celebration lasts from noon to 4 p.m. and includes a Glee Club performance, political speeches, a pie eating competition, and more. You can also cheer for players in an 1860s-style baseball game, enlist your children in fun three-legged races, and attend a patriotic reading of the Declaration of Independence. This is a great choice for families looking for a way to fill the hours before fireworks. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for children.

2.  Riverfest - Experience Four Days of Performances
Riverside Park, Veterans Memorial Drive East, La Crosse

Riverfest takes place from the first through the fourth of July in La Crosse, Wisconsin. You can catch live performances from a diverse range of performers including magician Isaiah Foster, hypnotist Gabriel Holmes, the Applause! Dance Academy, Kenny Ahern the clown, and several musical groups. On the fourth of July, the Kwik Trip Fireworks Extravaganza lights up the skies. You’ll find plenty of food and shopping throughout the Riverfest Park as well.

3. Ride, Slide, Fish, and Party
Downtown Austin

Austin’s Freedom Fest is another four-day festival (July 1-4) with a jam-packed calendar of events. Check out the bike race, hog jog, or fishing contest, and be sure to snag a spot for the Independence Day parade and two nights of fireworks. Live music, dance performances, and other entertainment will give you something to enjoy any time of day, and there are a number of rides and slides to keep children entertained as well.

What are your plans for Independence Day? Tell us where you’re headed in the comments below.