‘Americana on display’: Here are two Fourth of July celebrations

Two longstanding holiday traditions in St. Joseph County will continue later this week: Independence Day celebrations in Colon and Constantine.

Colon: ‘Americana on display’

Keith Stickley, Colon Area Chamber of Commerce president, said Fourth of July celebration organizers have put a lot of work into making the holiday an all-day and all-evening event in the Magic Capital of the World.

Stickley called the 2024 celebration “the biggest and best event in Southwest Michigan.”

Activities start at 11 a.m. with the downtown parade, an attraction that typically draws more than 5,000 spectators. It will follow its usual route from Colon High School, then west on State Street and south on South Blackstone.

Stickley said chamber member Cindy Conklin chairs this year’s parade and has indicated there is an inordinately high level of participation.

“The parade draws people from border states and all over Southwest Michigan … it is the quintessential, All-American Independence Day parade. Literally, Americana on display,” he said. “The chamber has a lot of active folks who have really been working hard and I think that will be pretty clear to anyone who shows up.”

Once the parade concludes, festivities continue with opening of the midway and food truck alley at noon on North Blackstone Avenue. Stickley and Lisa Gilman have assembled a selection of local vendors who offer something for everyone. Stickley said attendees can indulge in a variety of treats, from savory barbeque and fresh lemonade to the famous Colon Rabbit Ears – an elephant ear-like delicacy supporting the chamber-sponsored fireworks display.

Meanwhile, a craft show will run from noon to 4 p.m. just beyond the food trucks on Blackstone Avenue. The craft show features local artisans showcasing their unique creations, alongside games and activities to keep the kids entertained.

Stickley said the show is the perfect opportunity to pick up a handmade souvenir while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Prior to fireworks, a free concert by country/western artist Dewayne Spaw starts at 7:30 p.m. Sponsored by Colon Grange #215 and Bowers Service, the concert runs until the fireworks show starts about two hours later. Stickley suggested spectators bring a chair.

“The chamber has tried really hard to make it truly, a day-long celebration in Colon,” Stickley said. “It’s probably worth noting, too, that I believe all the magic shops are putting on shows during the afternoon as well.”

The culmination of Colon’s July 4th celebration is the fireworks display.

“We’re super proud of our fireworks display, which is strictly donation-based,” he said. “It’s always one of the best, unique waterside fireworks displays in the region and we’re really proud of that.”

Constantine: Parade returns to Water Street

A Fourth of July staple in Constantine starts the day, as the Firecracker 4K Fun Run/Walk begins at 8:30 a.m.

Suggested donation is $5 but greater contributions are welcome. All proceeds benefit Constantine Rotary. The event starts at Sweetland Stadium and covers school property.

Lizzie Vedbraaten, village of Constantine administrative assistant, said the 2024 Independence Day parade will proceed down Water Street. The procession, she said, is a fun way for businesses to gain exposure, kids are welcome to ride decorated bicycles and any other participants are welcome to join.

Lineup starts at 10:30 a.m., the procession begins at 11 a.m.

A spot can be reserved by calling 506-9080.

Anyone looking for a cool treat after the parade can find a single-serve ice cream cone at Messiah Lutheran Church on West Fifth Street until 2 p.m. or until inventory is exhausted.

Proceeds fund community-service projects.

“The Sandlot,” a 1993 comedy, will be shown at 7 p.m. prior to the fireworks display. Sponsored by Smolarz Dental and Corteva, the movie will be shown at Constantine Little League field.

Fireworks will follow the conclusion of the movie. Suggested viewing is from the Little League field.