On July 3, 1776, John Adams noted in a letter to his wife, Abigail, “I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival… . It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.”
He was, of course, referring to celebrations recognizing the anniversary of the approval of the Declaration of Independence. There is no organization that takes this proclamation more seriously than the Munising 4th of July Committee. Notably recognized as the #1 Spectacular Michigan Firework Show by Pure Michigan, the events are a unique and evident display of Munising’s commitment to celebrating freedom and the Land of the Brave. Committee archives note the hard work and diligence of the committee dating back many decades.
In the 1930s, people celebrated with enjoyable activities like threelegged races and horse pulls. The 2024 4th of July is shaping up to continue the long-standing tradition of entertainment and enjoyment. Offerings in 2024 include the Freedom 5k Fun Run & Walk at 8:30 a.m., a 10:00 a.m. flag raising at Binsfield Park, the annual parade and float contest, which sees thousands lining the streets of Munising in support of local bands, entertainment, organizations and law enforcement, as well as the widely hailed fireworks display beginning at dark.
Sign up for the Freedom 5k Fun Run and Walk can be found at www. runsignup.com. One of the most affordable run/walk events in the Upper Peninsula, it only costs $15 to participate and includes a race shirt for the first 300 sign ups. Awards will be given to the top male and female finishers as well as the organization and family with the most participants. This is a great opportunity to gather some friends, family, or coworkers, commit to your health, and support this fun event!
The “Kids First” focus of the day’s events ensures both the young and the young-at-heart will find themselves immersed in the community and celebratory nature of the day while gratefully remembering the vast freedoms we are afforded as citizens of the United States. To this end, the committee has added a new 45’ air obstacle course and a Pet Parade to go along with a water fight provided by the Munising Fire Department, Ferris wheel, train ride, ring toss, grease pole, watermelon eating contest, egg toss, and ice cream.
The committee takes the safety and enjoyment of all who witness their award- winning fireworks display very seriously. The decision to start the fireworks at dark, rather than dusk, is one key component to the overall experience. The dedicated fireworks crew has implemented many significant advancements to ensure that weather is rarely a limiting factor in its ability to provide an awe-inspiring pyrotechnics display. They work tirelessly to ensure a timely and reliable photo-worthy event.
The all-volunteer committee, noting its sincere gratitude to all who make the celebration possible, is proud of this unique observance rooted in decades of tradition. The Munising 4th of July Facebook page is your source for the most up-todate information regarding the festivities and can be found at www. facebook.com/munising4th. In addition to attendees, parade and fun run participants and vendors, the committee is also always looking for volunteers. Attendance at monthly meetings is not required and donations of time, talent and treasure are key components of the success of the celebration. Without the support and generosity of community members, sponsors, donors and volunteers, the annual celebration would not be the great success it is.
If you are interested in volunteering, becoming a vendor or donating, please email the committee at Munising4thofJuly@gmail.com.
