One of my favorite holidays of the year is the 4th of July. In the past I have always worked on the 4th, but with the birth of my son a few years ago, I became more motivated to enjoy the holiday activities through his eyes… and now it is a magical holiday for me. A can’t-miss activity in the area, especially if you have kids, is the Truckee Fourth of July Community Parade. Start the day by finding just about any firehouse around and you can enjoy the classic pancake breakfast – usually starting around 7 a.m. My choice will be the Truckee Fire Station (Station 92) on Donner Pass Road near the Truckee High School. The pancake breakfast benefits the Truckee High Scholarship Program, Seniors’ Program, Cancer Walk, and other community functions.
There is nothing better to follow a big pancake breakfast with than the Firecracker Mile Fun Run. The race starts at 9:45 just before the parade, at U.S. Bank on Donner Pass Road, and finishes at the train station in Downtown Truckee. This is a dog-friendly event, so bring your furry companions with you, on a leash.
I think that personally, I will opt out of the Fun Run after eating 10 pancakes or so, and instead take to my normal spot in front of Wild Cherries to get ready for the parade. The parade starts at 10 a.m. and winds from the east end of Truckee High School on Donner Pass Road, through the historic downtown commercial row.
After a day of fun in the sun, I recommend the fireworks at West End Beach at Donner Lake, which begin at dusk. If you are looking for less crowds, but still want to see some fireworks, you can head up the Old 40 Highway towards Sugar Bowl and find a big granite rock to throw a blanket on and take in the fireworks over the lake. I highly recommend this option if you are seeking a quiet peaceful evening under the stars.
Here is a link to Truckee-Travel-Guide‘s outline of 4th of July events and details.
I look forward to seeing you on the 4th, enjoying all of the festivities.
Shane Jones
530.448.5141