Annual Brookings 4th of July festivities include the Independence Day Parade and the Uncle Sam Jam. Add live music in the park and you have yourself a memorable celebration. Did we mention all these events cost little to nothing for the whole family?
Sunday, July 3rd
Start your holiday weekend by getting a bite to eat in Brookings. Look for something light and summery at Aqua Fresh. Located on Main Street, this restaurant puts fast food norms to shame by serving healthy food in a short amount of time. The menu includes sandwiches, wraps, salads and acai bowls. Agua Fresh has great food but are known for crushed juices and smoothies made from a wide array of fresh fruits.
In lieu of the holiday try ordering “The American”, a grilled sandwich with ham, Swiss cheese, oregano and mustard on it with a Berry Blast smoothie made with fresh strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries.
Our area’s newest event is the All-American Kid 4th of July Celebration being held at Midway Camp. On July 3rd, families are invited to come out at 2 p.m. and learn about firework safety. There will be live music, food vendors, kid’s entertainment and a petting zoo. Complimentary fireworks will be given to those that participate as well as a safe place to shoot them off.
Midway Camp is located at 46564 US Highway 14 Volga, SD 57071. To learn more, you can reach them at (605) 695 – 5253.
The night before the 4th brings live music in Pioneer Park by the Brookings Community Band. They will be performing “A Star-Spangled Spectacular.” This traditional patriotic concert includes generous portions of Sousa marches and a tribute to veterans! Bring your own lawn chair and snacks, this concert is free for all.
Monday, July 4th
Start celebrating with friends and family at the annual Brookings Independence Day Parade which promptly starts at 11 am. Enjoy the beautiful weather as numerous decorated floats cruise through Brookings handing out candy to kids young and old. The route will begin at 3rd & 3rd and go to Medary Avenue which will go to 6th Street and finish with Main Street.
Have a float you would like to enter in the parade? Call Brookings Radio at (605) 692-1430 or stop by their office located on 227 22nd Ave S to join in on the fun.
Look for a post-parade picnic spot at the Dakota Nature Park. Tucked away on the outskirts of town this park is 135 acres of beautiful trails and a string of ponds perfect for spending the afternoon outdoors. Bring a fishing pool, kayak, bike or any outdoor games to enjoy at your leisure.
A picnic in the summer calls for a sweet treat afterwards. McCrory Gardens will be open from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and has SDSU Ice Cream to curb those sugary cravings. Find some shade in the garden to eat your frozen dessert before heading to your next event.
After an afternoon in the sun, join the whole community at the Uncle Sam Jam. Doors at the Swiftel Center open at 5:00 p.m. This event includes face painting, The Great Plains ZooMobile, sandbox zone, kids crafts, photo booth area, inflatable games and more! Live music from The Rude Band starts at 6:00 p.m. and concludes with a big fireworks finale thanks to the City of Brookings! Best of all, this event is totally and completely FREE!
Uncle Sam Jam Schedule:
5 – 9 : Inflatable games, face painting, Zoomobile, photo booth, Live music
10: Fireworks*
* The fireworks are set to go off approximately shortly after sunset. Please note the time is approximate. We will do our best to start around 10:00PM; however, please be aware that fireworks may start at a different time than noted and make arrangements accordingly.
The Lane’s is celebrating the 4th of July by honoring our military members. On Independence Day, military members get one free hour of bowling and shoe rental. They also receive a $20 match play card to use at the casino anytime. The bowling alley is located at 722 Western Ave and will be open 11 a.m. to midnight.
