Beaverton prepares for Fourth of July

The City of Beaverton has boasted a grand celebration of American independence for many years thanks to the community and the Beaverton Area Business Association (BABA). This year’s theme is “Red, White and Blue,” which should make it easy to dress accordingly for those looking to celebrate. 

This year, not unlike previous years, the celebration begins before July 4, and carries on afterward as well. Starting this Saturday, July 2, there will be the ninth annual Firecracker 5k Fun Run. The event will start at the Beaverton Activity Center (BAC), 106 Tonkin Street in Beaverton at 8 a.m., and is open to all.  

There will also be a new addition to the fun run, a one-mile fun run that participants may enter. Be sure to sign up for a spot in either fun run before the weekend starts! Sign up online by visiting https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/Beaverton/BeavertonFirecracker5k. 

On Sunday, July 3, there will be Church in the Park at Ross Lake Park. Sunday School will begin at 10 a.m. and service will be held at 11 a.m. at the Ross Lake Park Pavilion. The annual Beaverton Bowl & Lounge cornhole tournament will also be held on Sunday with check in at 4:30 p.m. and bags flying at 5 p.m. This event is for those age 21 or over and will only be available for the first 64 teams registered. There will also be a prize giveaway for the best team costume. 

On the Fourth of July, the parade will begin their line up at 9:30 a.m. Judging will take place at 10 a.m., and the parade will step off at 11 a.m. The parade will depart from behind the Beaverton Schools Administration building and travel north on M-18 into downtown. 

The annual BABA firework display will once again take place at dusk over Ross Lake. However, the location from which the fireworks will be launched has changed slightly. Instead of the property directly across from the Ross Lake Park beach, the fireworks will be launched from Tom Pohlman’s property, just northwest of the previous location. It is a very slight change, but a change nonetheless, and one that may be a noticeable difference in location to those who enjoy the show each year. In the case of rain, the firework display will be rescheduled to the following day, July 5 at dusk. 

On Thursday, July 7, the A & W Restaurant in Beaverton will be holding a “Cruise In Night” event. This event will feature food specials, A & W merchandise, and some good old fashion fun. The business hopes to see some of the “coolest” local cars pulling in on Thursday. 

Beaverton will continue to be a great place to celebrate the Fourth of July if you’re looking for summer fun. Whether you’re celebrating in Gladwin County or away from home, enjoy a safe and fun weekend! Look to our special insert this week to see firework shows in the surrounding area.