LAKE CITY — One of Lake City’s biggest draws of the year is underway, and the crowds are already out enjoying the 4th of July festivities.
Missaukee Area Chamber of Commerce executive director, Samantha Peery said the Greatest 4th in the North draws in thousands to the area and for many, it has become a long-standing tradition.
“Everyone comes here and celebrates with their family and connects with everyone. And makes memories over the lake and the trails and the beautiful city we have and vacations,” said Peery.
Peery said it’s one of their longest running events and it’s a big deal for the area. She said the event has always been family friendly. There’s something for every age group to enjoy.
“We have a grand parade; we have a kids parade. We have a foam party. We have a pickleball tournament, cornhole tournament, five K, food vendors, free live entertainment all the time. So it’s definitely something for every age group to come out. And we’re one of very few that can actually shoot fireworks off of the water,” said Peery.
Casondra Clark, grew up in Lake City but lives out of the area now.
She said she brought her three kids to continue the tradition she had of coming here when she was a kid.
“I have twins that are four. So, we don’t really get to do very many vacations or something. This is the first time that they’ve been old enough to really enjoy it and, be part of it with all of us,” said Clark.
Clark said extended family was expected to join her this weekend, so it’s definitely a family affair.
Clark’s teenage daughter, Lillian Young said she’s having a great time.
“It’s my first time being here. They have really good, like, bracelets and stuff. I actually got two bracelets here. I got from two of the shops here, and excited to hang out with my family and friends.
Young said it’s not the parade or the fireworks she’s most looking forward to.
“Probably me doing the pie eating contest. I plan on doing that, and I hope, cross my fingers, hopefully I might do well. And if I don’t, then that’s okay. I did try my best,” said Young.
Luck was on her side; she did win that competition.
Others also had eating on their mind, like Cynthia Laverty from Manton who comes every year.
“It’s silly to say, but it’s the elephant ears. I like, I love the entertainment, I really do. It’s really fun to watch the entertainment, especially the kids. But I love the elephant ears. It’s a tradition,” said Laverty.