Fourth festivities planned across the valley

There are plenty of festivities and fun community events planned on and around the Fourth of July weekend. Here’s a look at what’s happening in the Mission Valley and beyond.

Polson will kick off its annual Fourth of July festivities on Saturday with a “massive” 20-minute long fireworks display at the Polson Fairgrounds. This show begins at dark, around 10 p.m.

A Fourth of July parade with the theme “We Rise Up Together” is set for Monday at 11 a.m. in downtown Polson.

People can donate to the Polson Chamber of Commerce fireworks fund by contacting chamber@polsonchamber.com. 

In Arlee, “United we stand” is the theme of the 70th annual Fourth of July parade.

Registration will be at the Arlee High School entryway from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., with parade line up in the parking lot.  

The parade begins at noon traveling south on Fyant Street, turning west into Bouch, before heading north and returning to the high school via Morigeau street. 

Trophies will be awarded following the parade at the Arlee Jocko Museum. The museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Fourth, and by appointment during the summer. 

Additional parade and museum information available from Alvaretta Morin at 406-726-3167.

Bring the family to Bigfork’s Fourth of July Parade and celebration. This year’s parade theme is “Community First.” The parade begins at noon with members of the military. They will pause at the Bigfork Inn to present colors while the National Anthem is sung.

Parking for the parade will be in the field at the intersection of Montana 35 and Montana 82. From this parking area only, free shuttle service is available to downtown Bigfork from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For everyone to have a clear view of the parade, there will be no cars allowed downtown after 8 a.m. on the Fourth.

​​The Lakeside Fourth of July Fireworks Show is a touchstone summer event on Flathead Lake and an annual family tradition for many generations. This unique show launched from a floating barge off the shore of Lakeside brings excitement to both locals and visitors alike.

The fireworks show begins at 11 p.m. and can be viewed from Lakeside Marina or from watercraft on Flathead Lake.