Star Spangled North Idaho

There is so much to do here for the Fourth of July. Growing up I loved going to the parade downtown every year. The costumes, local floats and the spirit of the day was so captivating and fun. Then in high school I got to march in the parade as a cheerleader for CHS and now it's still fun to continue the tradition of watching with my three nephews and family.

For those of you who are not already tuned into the schedule, here's how it goes (every year):

  • The Parade begins at 11 a.m. and runs along Sherman Ave. from 15th to Government Way.
  • Following the parade, head down to the city park for fun activities, music and food vendors.
  • To wrap up the evening head down to the city beach to watch the firework show around 9:30. Beautiful! Although I still think the lighting ceremony in November is a better show... but that's just my opinion.

There are a ton of other celebrations going on in the area. Bayview Daze is probably my favorite, even more than our downtown show. I just love how the little town of Bayview turns into one huge community festival. Then on Saturday there's a lighted boat parade on the lake and a beautiful firework show. This is a must-do for everyone at some point.

Other celebrations include:

  • Harrison: There's live music all afternoon followed by a firework show at dusk.
  • Hayden: The Hayden Lake Country Club hosts a small firework show at dusk that can be seen from Honeysuckle beach.
  • Spirit Lake: Parade from the senior center up Maine Street and back to the City Park beginning at 11 a.m.Following the parade there's live music, vendors and family activities at the City Park until 4 p.m. The firework show begins at 10 p.m.
  • Spokane: Riverfront Park knows how to do it right. This is one celebration I have yet to attend, mostly because of the drive and large crowds. But every year I hear how great it is and how many fun activities there are to do. Maybe someday we'll brave the crowds to check it out. I would love to have a window seat at Anthony's for this firework show!

The Inland Northwest definitely knows how to celebrate the Fourth. How do you celebrate? Do you attend one of the big shows or put on your own in your driveway? Either way I hope everyone has a safe and happy Fourth of July! I'll do my best to take some photos and post them to Facebook. Please feel free to post your own too!Andy 

North IdahoAndrea4th of July, Author: Andrea, Bayview Daze, Coeur d'Alene, Downtown Coeur d'Alene, Firework show, Fourth of July, Hayden, Hayden Lake, North Idaho, parade, Things to do in Coeur d'AleneComment