Fantastic fireworks, the county fair, community festivals, live music, theater and more fill the July calendar. The Park Rapids Lakes Area celebrates summer like no other place in a setting of crystal clear lakes, beautiful beaches, fresh north woods air and a star-spangled night sky.
From the Firecracker Footrace at dawn to the fabulous fireworks at dusk, Independence Day promises picnics and time at the lake. Then visitors can head into Park Rapids for a pie contest and auction, the old-fashioned parade starting at 3 p.m. on Main Avenue, 2nd Street Stage from 5-7 Downtown, the Park Rapids Area Community Band Pre-fireworks Concert at Red Bridge Park at 7:30 and the Rotary Fireworks display at dusk.
The PBR Challenger Tour Bull Ride kicks off on the 4th of July weekend in Park Rapids. Talented and brave cowboys pit their skills against some of the world’s best bucking bulls July 4, 5 and 6 at the Jokela Rodeo & Auction Grounds. The gates open at 5 p.m. all three nights.
The Park Rapids Downtown Business Association celebrates summer at 2nd Street Stage events Thursday evenings through Aug. 22. Second Street Stage runs from 6 to 8 p.m. most nights with bands, a beer garden and family activities on 2nd Street between Main Avenue and Highway 71. On July 4 the band will be i like you. Bands coming up are The Color Pharmacy July 11, Saint Anyway July 18 and Patchouli July 25.
Menahga’s Midsummer Festival runs Friday, Saturday and Sunday, July 5-7. Or cheer for a winner at the Pig Races in Nevis Sunday, July 7 and return for Nevis Muskie Days Friday and Saturday, July 19-20. A highlight will be the Muskie Days Music Festival featuring 34 bands on six stages.
Live bands play on at the Ror Schach Music Fest Friday and Saturday, 12-13 at the Fairgrounds in Park Rapids.
The 3rd Annual Bite of Park Rapids will feature food vendors, a juried art fair, kids activities, food contests, live music and more from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 14 in downtown Park Rapids.
The Hubbard County Fair opens July 17 with midway fun and a teen dance. The fair continues through July 21 with grandstand shows, including a talent show, comedian, tractor and truck pull, kiddie tractor pull plus the ever popular demolition derby on Sunday afternoon. Fairgoers also can visit 4-H and other agricultural exhibits, enjoy great food and find children’s entertainment.
The Lake George Blueberry Festival rounds out the month’s festivities Friday, Saturday and Sunday, July 26-28.
If it’s culture you crave, check the calendar for dates for performances at Long Lake Theater, Jasper’s and Akeley’s Woodtick Theater, exhibits at the Nemeth Art Center and the Northern Light Opera Company’s productions of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” and “Carousel.”
While July offers lots to see and do in the area, you may want to just stay at the lake to relax, unwind and watch the clouds float by. It’s up to you.
The Chamber Website has all the information you need to put together a memorable vacation or weekend visit. If you want help or have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.