When Nevada County plumber Kenny Harney thinks about July 4th celebrations, it's always about the fireworks. That's because Harney has been the master behind Nevada County's fabulous fireworks display at the Fairgrounds for more than 2 decades. In fact, he and Nick Whittlesey start getting the show ready at 3 in the afternoon, so it will be ready to light up the sky by 9:30 in the evening. The aerial show is the culmination of the July 4th events at the Nevada County Fairgrounds.
Pre-Parade Concert
The first event of Saturday's celebration of American independence begins in Grass Valley at 10 a.m. when the Nevada County Concert Band offers a Pre-Parade Concert in the parking lot of Wells Fargo Bank, located downtown at Mill and Neal streets. The concert is free and those attending may want to bring chairs for comfortable seating.
Parade Kicks off Next in Grass Valley
"A New Beginning" is the theme of this year's July 4th Parade, which begins at 11 a.m. at the corner of East Main Street and Auburn Street. Because it is an odd year, the parade takes place in Grass Valley. On even years, it's Nevada City's turn to host the patriotic parade.
This year there are about 80 entries in the parade, which will also feature 9 marching bands. Nevada County Supervisor Ed Scofield is the parade's Grand Marshal.
People begin lining Mill Street early on the morning of July 4 (Saturday this year) to get a good spot for parade-watching.The parade goes up Main Street, down Mill Street, across Neal Street and down Church Street, ending at Chapel Street.
Fairgrounds Celebration
The after-parade celebration is always held at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. The parking lot at Gate 4 opens at 2 p.m.; the Fairgrounds opens at 3 p.m. and entertainment begins at 4 p.m. Members of the Gold Country Kiwanis Club assist with parking.
"We love doing this joint venture with the Grass Valley Downtown Association, and the Grass Valley/Nevada County Chamber of Commerce," said Cathy Whittlesey, executive manager of the Nevada City Chamber. "We're proud to partner in the celebration."
There are more than 20 craft vendors signed up and there will be entertainment most of the afternoon and evening on the Fairground's Pine Tree Stage. Entertainers include the Tommy Knockers Cloggers, Mad Dash, the Ophir Prison Band and Buck Love and the Humperheads. At 4 p.m. there will be Swing Dancing on the Green. Parade winners will be announced at 6 p.m.
Many Treat Street food vendors will be open, serving American favorites such as cheeseburgers, tacos, root beer floats and strawberry smoothies. At the Loading Shute adjacent to Treat Street, beer and wine will be available for purchase.
The fireworks show starts at 9:30 and concludes the day's events a few minutes before 10 p.m. Cost is $3 for parking; $8 for adults and teens to enter the Fairgrounds. Kids 12 and under are free. Bring chairs or blankets for seating.
Concert in North San Juan
An Americana Festival will be held at the North Columbia Cultural Center beginning at 3 p.m. and ending at 9. Bands playing include Cousin Cricket, Shay Dillon Band, Bob Woods Trio, Dakota Sid, The Badland Serenaders, The Humbugs, April and Zuma, and Tiera Iasparo.
Cost is $15 and tickets are available at the door, or at Mother Truckers Market or Beads Galore. Children under 12 are free. Barbecue and catered food and drinks will be available for purchase.
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