This is a paid piece from the Sioux Metro Growth Alliance.

Simplified: The Fourth of July brings with it some of the most beloved summer traditions. From parades to hot dogs to fireworks, here's a look at how the region is celebrating this year.

Why it matters

  • No one shines quite like a small town during the Fourth of July. Lennox, for example, draws a crowd of thousands from far and wide to enjoy its annual Independence Day festivities.
  • But while Lennox's celebrations may be the biggest, there are plenty of chances to celebrate and see fireworks displays across the Sioux Metro.
"The Fourth of July is an excellent opportunity to check out other communities in the greater Sioux Falls area," said Tyler Tordsen, president and CEO of the Sioux Metro Growth Alliance. "It's the pinnacle of small town fun with parades, street dances and fireworks displays."

What's happening in the region?

Lennox's annual celebration kicks off Wednesday, July 3 with the Little Miss Lennox pageant, cruise night and a street dance featuring musical artist Weston Frank.

  • Then on Thursday, July 4, there's a Firecracker Fun Run first thing in the morning at 8 a.m., followed by the parade at 10:30 a.m., the annual car show, a concert by the municipal band and, of course, fireworks at dusk. Find a full schedule of events here.
"I see (the Fourth) as a great opportunity to showcase what this community has for everybody," City Administrator Nate Vander Plaats said. "It's just one of those things that everybody looks forward to."

Harrisburg is also getting in on the holiday fun with an Independence Day Celebration at Central Park. You'll find inflatables and music, and the American Legion Post 45 will be selling burgers, hot dogs, chips, pop and ice cream.

  • Fireworks will begin at dusk, around 9 p.m.

If you want to get in on the pyrotechnic fun a little ahead of the holiday, Fire Bros Fireworks in Brandon are demonstrating what their fireworks can do with a "BOOM!" display Saturday, June 29 at 8 p.m. at the corner of Highway 11 and Highway 42.

Salem is also celebrating early with a Barn Raisin' BBQ at the McCook County Fairgrounds on Saturday, June 29.

  • Events include a 5K and 10K race, a corn hole tournament, a local baseball game, and fireworks. There will also be a kids zone with inflatables, face painting, a petting zoo and a dunk tank. More details here.

Meanwhile, Garretson is starting the festivities with an event Tuesday, July 2 at Tandberg Field. The American Legion Post 23 will play a double header (with free admission), and spectators can also enjoy free burgers, hotdogs and chips. More details here.

Humboldt also has a full lineup of fun with Main Street Days running July 5-7. Saturday's events include a car show, face painting, a kiddie tractor pull, a 2 p.m. parade and live music. Get the full lineup here.