Polson’s Independence Day celebration shines

According to the Polson Chamber of Commerce, this year’s Fourth of July celebration begins with the highly anticipated fireworks show over Flathead Lake on July 3, followed by a new kids' parade and the community parade July 4.

The celebration officially kicks off with Polson’s fireworks show on Thursday, July 3, over Flathead Lake. This long-standing tradition not only lights up the sky but, according to the chamber, also helps support local businesses by drawing thousands of visitors to town a day early. The extravaganza “extends the celebration, boosts local tourism, and creates a ripple effect of economic support for shops, restaurants, and small businesses throughout town,” notes chamber administrator Lori Abramson.

The new addition to Friday’s lineup is the Little Stars and Stripes Ride. This mini parade for kids and their decorated bikes, wagons, scooters and strollers kicks off the main parade at noon Friday, July 4. The parade winds through downtown Polson with music, floats and abundant displays of hometown pride.

Abramson notes that organizing the fireworks show is a major challenge. Each year, the Polson Chamber Fireworks Committee works to raise more than $35,000 to make the show happen —entirely through local donations, sponsorships and volunteer support. That fundraising effort gets harder each year as costs rise and resources become more limited.

“The city or state doesn’t pay for our fireworks, they’re paid for by the people and businesses who love this community,” said Cole Wallace, former president of the Polson Chamber and chair of the Fireworks Committee. He notes that the show is completely funded by donations and organized by a volunteer board.

“We do it because we believe this celebration honors our country and reminds us of what it means to support each other – not just on the Fourth, but all year long.”

Learn how to help light up Polson at www.polsonchamber.com.

The Redcoats return

The Polson VFW along with Raven Hall MRC will once again host a patriotic skirmish against the British Redcoats minutes before the Fourth of July Parade in Polson. Now in its fourth year, the skirmish is narrated and action-packed.

Volunteers are needed and will receive a Polson Minuteman t-shirt. Adults willing to participate on the side of the British should be at the VFW, 423 Main St., at 10 a.m. next Friday. Adults and children willing to join the Minutemen should arrive at 11 a.m.

The Redcoats will begin their march at 11:50 a.m. and the ensuing battle will conclude at noon in front of the VFW.