BY: RACHEL WUMKES
As we are on the official Eve of our 4th of July Extravaganza, downtown Clear Lake is a buzz of activity. Set up is well underway as crews prepare for the carnival to open on Wednesday at 5PM. As you can imagine, the Chamber team is a flurry of running errands, completing last minute preparations, and answering the constantly-ringing phone.
And we are loving every minute of it!
Excitement for the return of the Evans United Carnival is palpable. As we made our daily trek to the pool on Monday afternoon, we cruised by a slew of semi-trucks, trailers, and campers out by the bus barn. My oldest, the pre-teen who shows zero excitement over anything, literally squealed, “They’re here!”
And so, I decided to give y’all one final rundown. The answer to your every question pertaining to our fabulous Independence Day celebration!
While the focus of activity takes place mostly in City Park, do keep in mind that our regularly scheduled activities will also take place around town. Hit up Central Gardens for Fresh on Fridays at 9am Friday morning, and don’t forget Farmers Market in the Surf Ballroom parking lot on Saturday!
The 2nd Annual Boat Parade will begin their trek around the shoreline at 1:00PM on Sunday, July 4th. This was a fun COVID event that made its way back again this year! And, of course, there’s the famous Lady of the Lake Party Cruise which takes place on Sunday, July 4th. Boarding begins at 7PM and they push off from shore at 8PM for the most incredible view of our fireworks over the Lake.
Here is the official schedule, including band information for each night of live music in the park. Do note that the incredibly awesome BINGO tent will be open daily. Play all the games. Win all the money.
Be the Bingo Champion of the World!!!
For any other questions, concerns, or to verify road closures, please check our website www.clearlakeiowa.com or give the Chamber office a call at 641-357-2159.
We are SO EXCITED for the fun to begin. I hope each of you makes the BEST memories this week. We do, however, need to have twice the fun to make up for missing out last year, right?
Wednesday, June 30
Lakeside Vendor Market 5 – 9 p.m.
Evans United Shows Carnival opens at 5 p.m.
BINGO Tent opens at 5 p.m.
Live Music Split Second Band at 7 p.m.
Thursday, July 1
Lakeside Vendor Market 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Evans United Shows Carnival opens at noon
BINGO Tent opens at 5 p.m.
Live Music by Sideshow Bob at 7 p.m.
Friday, July 2
Lakeside Vendor Market 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Evans United Shows Carnival opens at noon (Wristband Day – $20 from noon – 5 p.m.)
BINGO tent opens at noon
Live Music by Arch Allies at 7 p.m.
Saturday, July 3
Lakeside Vendor Market 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Evans United Shows Carnival Opens at noon
BINGO tent opens at noon
Live Music by County Line Drive at 7 p.m.
Sunday, July 4
Lakeside Vendor Market 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Evans United Shows Carnival Opens at noon
BINGO tent opens at noon
Clear Lake Municipal Band from 8:30 – 10 p.m. (Presented by Larson’s Mercantile)
Fireworks over Clear Lake at 10 p.m. (Musical Tribute on 106.1FM, AM1490, & AM1300)
Monday, July 5
Freedom 5K and Kid’s Fun Run 8 a.m.
Parade starts at 10 a.m. (Parade Route)
Lakeside Vendor Market 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Evans United Shows Carnival Opens at noon (Wristband Day – $20 from noon – 5 p.m.)
BINGO tent opens at 1 p.m.
Sheltered Reality drumline 1 p.m.
Family Fun Day Events (Presented by CL Tel/Woodford Lumber & Home)
• Family Feud Game Show at 3 p.m.
• Family Fun Time Games at 3 p.m. All ages welcome, games take place at the Bandshell)