WISCONSIN RAPIDS − Hundreds of people will gather along the Wisconsin River to celebrate America’s independence on July 4 in Wisconsin Rapids.
The fireworks will start at dusk, but the celebration begins much earlier along both sides of the river. City leaders released details earlier this month for the Wisconsin Rapids Independence Day Celebration & Fireworks Show.
Check out all the information you need for your Independence Day celebrations in Wisconsin Rapids.
When do celebrations start?
Mill Creek Cowtippers will perform on stage from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. July 4 on Second Street between Grand Avenue and Jackson Street bridges.
The Wisconsin Rapids City Band will also perform ahead of the fireworks show, with its performance starting at 7:30 p.m. outside of Centralia Center, 220 Third Ave. S.
Alexis Walton will sing the national anthem before the fireworks show begins at dusk, or about 9:30 p.m., launching from the Wisconsin River. Guests can watch the fireworks along most of the riverbank and downtown area, except for the launch and safety zone on the western bank of the river between the Grand Avenue Bridge to south of Wisconsin Rapids Moravian Church.
Vendors will be set up on West Grand Avenue and on Second Street South, south of East Grand Avenue, selling a variety of food and refreshments throughout the event.
When can you save your spot?
People can start saving spots along the riverbank or in city parks after 6 a.m. July 4. Any tarps, blankets or chairs out before 6 a.m. will be removed. People should not put blankets over plantings or mulch.
What roads will be closed and when?
Guests driving to the festivities are asked to park on the side of the river which they live for easier departure at the end of the event. Always yield to pedestrians, obey all traffic directions given by local law enforcement and take your time leaving the event.
Are there designated parking spaces for those with disabilities?
Parking spaces designated for people with disabilities will be available on both sides of the river. On the west side, parking will be available at Wisconsin Rapids Moravian Church on Goggins Street. On the east side, parking will be available at First Congregational Church on Maple Street.
Can you watch from a boat?
Yes, boaters will be able to watch from an established safety zone on the Wisconsin River, dependent on weather conditions. Boat patrols will set and monitor the area, protecting boaters from any areas where fallout from the fireworks could cause injury, fire or explosions. Boaters are reminded to ensure there are enough certified flotation devices on board and the boat remains at or under capacity.
What happens in inclement weather?
If possible, a decision to cancel the fireworks will be made by 6 p.m. July 4 and the alternate day would be set for Saturday, July 5.
Any decision regarding inclement weather or other updates will be announced through the City of Wisconsin Rapids Facebook page, Wisconsin Rapids Community Media on Solarus channel 3 or Charter channel 985, and through Nixle alerts.
Contact Caitlin at cshuda@gannett.com or follow her on Twitter @CaitlinShuda.
This article originally appeared on Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune: Your guide to the 2025 Wisconsin Rapids Independence Day Celebration & Fireworks Show
Reporting by Caitlin Shuda, Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune / Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune
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