I grew up on the range, right on Main Street in Biwabik, MN.  There were two holidays that really got you excited as a kid.  One was obviously Christmas, and the next was Independence Day.  I thought that everywhere celebrated The 4th of July like we did.  It wasn't until I grew up and moved away that I realized it wasn't as big of a deal in other places.  

Let me paint you a picture of my typical July 4th weekend growing up.   First off, as a kid we would go to the Aurora Parade on July 3rd.  We'd get a ton of candy that was passed out.  (They still throw a ton of candy.)  The next day we would wake up bright and early and have the "Kiddie" 4th of July Parade before noon.  It's the parade where young kids can be a part of it.  For example, my dog and I walked in the parade and got a ribbon.  Not a big deal, but it was fun.

Next, all of us kids would hop on our bikes and ride downtown to the fireworks stand.  We would spend a whole summer allowance on smoke bombs, stink bombs, snap pops, you name it!

Then of course there were all the food stands.  On the range you don't just have a few food trucks.  Bars serve food right out their window.  Churches get together and put up a food stand.  My dad every year stops to get a polish "from the Lutherans" in Aurora.  They are some pretty good polish.

In the evening of the 4th, most of the town was already several beers in.  You can walk the streets drinking beers from the bars selling them through their windows.  It's tradition.

The Caluthumpian Parade had people come in from all around the area.  Chairs would be lined up in front of our house for hours before the parade would start.  Family members we hadn't talked to all year would all of a sudden show up again for our yearly visit.  (They've got a good spot, ya know.)

Then after the parade, it's the street dance and partying that takes place until bar close.

So to wrap it up, if you haven't experience the 4th of July on the Iron Range, you're missing out.

Aaron Brown, a fellow ranger shares a lot of the same memories growing up.  He's done a fantastic job of putting together a comprehensive schedule you can see below.

 

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