Holidaze gets extra sparkle for America’s big birthday

Holidaze, Grafton’s annual Fourth of July celebration, will sparkle a little more this year as America marks its 250th anniversary.

The event will be held in Lime Kiln Park on Saturday, June 27, with an expanded lineup of activities, entertainment and, as usual, a spectacular fireworks show.

“Our goal every year is to bring the community together, and with the 250th anniversary of America, we knew we had to make this celebration extra special,” Grafton Area Chamber of Commerce Tourism Development and Special Events Coordinator Danielle Piering said.

“We’re excited to offer new experiences while continuing the traditions everyone enjoys.”

The event kicks off with a parade that begins at Kennedy Elementary School, 1629 11th Ave., at 4 p.m.

The parade will proceed east on Broad Street, turn south onto 12th Avenue, continue to Green Bay Road and conclude at the intersection of Falls Road and Green Bay Road.

The Golden Gals MKE, a dance group comprised of women 50 and older that is known for its Fourth of July performances, will make a special appearance in both the parade and give a live performance at the conclusion of the parade in the park.

The remainder of the festivities begin at 5 p.m.

Among the traditional activities will be the KJS Construction touch-a-truck, where children and adults can get a close-up look at heavy machinery and large equipment, and Hoppe Tree Service kid’s climb, as well as the Half-Twisted & Half Knot Balloon artist.

There will also be a food pavilion, beer tent and live music from Tallboy MKE from 6 to 9 p.m.

Among the food vendors will be Kona Ice and Flip’s Mini Donuts.

Those attending can also help color a 16-foot mural that will be displayed at the celebration.

New this year will be the Big Bang Bubble Party, a three-in-one inflatable game and a scavenger hunt for red, white and blue painted rocks hidden in the park. Youngsters can turn in one rock and receive a day pass for the Grafton Family Aquatic Center or the Feith Family Ozaukee YMCA and a chance to win a giant inflatable outdoor game.

Those attending are encouraged to take a free shuttle bus to the celebration. Buses will travel between the parking lot at the east side of Grafton High School to the park throughout the evening.

The celebration will conclude with a fireworks display.

Proceeds from the festival will go to Celebrate Grafton and the fireworks show.