Celebrate our nation’s independence and enjoy the holiday weekend in Rochester! There are many things to do in Southeast Minnesota to celebrate, including family-friendly activities, festivals, food and fireworks. Here are five ideas of things to do over the 4th of July weekend:

Fireworks, Music, Food Trucks and More at 4th Fest

4th Fest is Rochester's official 4th of July Celebration. It’s a free community celebration at Soldiers Field Park, which features the Rochester Community Band, DJ Aventus, Rochester Poet Laureate Jean Prokott, and the Lonesome Losers: A Tribute to Yacht Rock, all leading up to the fireworks show at 10:00 p.m. Find the full schedule of events and food truck information here.

Rochester 4th Fest4th Fest | credit Experience Rochester

Cheer on the Rochester Honkers

A patriotic pastime, a game of baseball is a great way to spend the 4th of July. The Honkers, Rochester’s summer collegiate team, take on the Mankato Moondogs on July 1, the Eau Claire Express on July 3, and the La Crosse Loggers on July 4, all at Mayo Field. Get your tickets here.

Shop Local at the Rochester Farmers Market

Support local growers and stock up for your holiday barbeques and picnics at the Rochester Farmers Market on Saturday, July 1 from 7:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Browse dozens of booths with produce, meats and baked goods and meet firsthand the farmers and gardeners who grew or made them, all within a 50-mile radius of Rochester. The market also has live music and other family-friendly activities.

Rochester Farmers MarketRochester Farmers Market

Enjoy a Sensory-Friendly Celebration

Looking for a calm and quiet way to celebrate Independence Day? Parks and Rec's AccessABLE Program & Autism Resource Guide are hosting a 4th of July Party on Saturday, July 1 from 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. at the Silver Lake Fire Station and Silver Lake Park. There will be indoor and outdoor yard games, hot dogs & root beer floats, and a silent sparkler show! Find more information here.

Dance, Run, and Play at Stewartville Summerfest

Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual Summerfest is June 30-July 4 and features a wide variety of family-friendly activities. Sunday July 2 includes a disc golf tournament at Bear Cave Park, while the Summerfest Dance takes place Monday, July 3. The main events on Tuesday, July 4 include Arts in the Park, Summerfest Runs, a car show, a home run derby, the Grand Parade at 6:30 p.m., and fireworks at Bear Cave Park at dusk. Find the full schedule here.

Fireworks over Silver LakeAB-Photography.US