Delavan has become known as a must-see stop for patriotic festivities each Fourth of July. This year is no exception as America reaches its milestone 250-year anniversary.
To help commemorate the big birthday for the nation, a cross-section of Delavan organizations are banding together for an extravaganza, “10 Days of Patriotic Pride.” The full schedule is available here; it kicks off Friday, June 26, and runs through Sunday, July 5.
Delavan Mayor Ryan J. Schroeder said the extensive program is reflective of the community’s — and the nation’s — rich cultural diversity.
“This milestone in our nation’s history deserves more than just a day of celebration,” Schroeder said. “We’re creating 10 days of activities that will bring together residents of all ages and backgrounds to celebrate what makes America and Delavan truly special.”
Throughout the event, residents and visitors alike can recognize this pivotal moment in American history through music, family-friendly activities, informative events, tours and fireworks on more than one occasion.
“Our goal is to have a good mix of great family-friendly activities, and that goes for our local families, as well as families who might be on vacation,” said Alderwoman Megan Armstrong-Garcia, who is one of the chairs of Delavan’s celebration of America’s 250th.
The Phoenix Park Bandshell will host several days of music and entertainment throughout the program.
On the first day, for instance, “Roots to Remembrance: Delavan Historical Society’s 250th Celebration” will be held at the popular community spot from 5:30 to 8 p.m., with readings of the Declaration of Independence, local Scouts presenting the colors, a recitation of the National Anthem and a performance by the Watertown 1st Brigade Band.
Other toe-tapping performances at the bandshell throughout the celebration include a Neil Diamond Tribute Band, the Palmyra-Eagle Community Band, Gary Stebnitz, a ceremonial “Parade of Colors” event and a John Mellencamp Tribute Band.
History and events harkening back to yesteryear are interwoven throughout the 10-day stretch. An American ice cream social, pancake breakfast, an all-American game day, garden walk, muster tree carving event and a wagon tour of the city are among the activities planned.
The Red, White and Brew Market, from 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday, July 2, is one of multiple events taking place within the city’s downtown. More than 50 vendors will be on hand.
Fireworks, of course, are a time-honored part of Delavan’s celebration of Independence Day, and this year is no exception. Town of Delavan’s fireworks display will take place over Delavan Lake at 9 p.m. Saturday, June 27, with a viewing party at Lake Lawn Resort.
The City of Delavan’s fireworks display and flag ceremony is set for 9 p.m. Saturday, July 4, at Delavan-Darien High School’s Borg Stadium.
Armstrong-Garcia credits strong collaboration between different civic groups and local organizations with assembling an event that is sure to be memorable to anyone who attends.
“Local groups and organizations are coming together. Rather than just being a city-led event, we’ve got the full community coming together to make this happen,” she said. “There really is going to be something for everyone.”
As America reaches a special milestone, Armstrong-Garcia said Delavan’s local recognition is an opportunity to spotlight many periods in time — including what’s to come in the road ahead.
“It’s a great way to honor the past, but also look forward as we make memories in the present with families and neighbors and organizations,” she said. “That’s the goal.”
