Celebrating the Fourth

July Fourth is almost upon us, and places all around Door County have fun-filled events planned. From fireworks to grill outs, parades to shows, there is a little something for everybody. Here are a few holiday highlights, starting with a couple beyond the parades, fireworks, and brat fries.

Sister Bay offers live music from both ends of the spectrum Friday night.

The Jana Nyberg Quartet will perform at the Mission Grille in Sister Bay from 8 – 11 pm. The group has a smooth jazz style with an edge, as Nyberg’s vocals are gritty and deep but refined. The instrumentalists in the quartet blend seamlessly with each other and their singer, creating a mellow, pleasing sound to which Nyberg’s vocals add a contemporary flavor. They are a must see for jazz connoisseurs and newbies alike.

Those looking for a harder sound can head to the Sister Bay Bowl, where the Mullet Hunters hit the floor. The band is as unique as their name, playing rock music pulled from a variety of influences. Edgy and uptempo, they’ll have the crowd dancing and working off the day’s indulgence.

For $5, you can give your pet a shot at stardom in Sturgeon Bay’s pet parade down Third Avenue. The parade gives owners and their pets a chance to compete in the categories of ‘most patriotic dog,’ ‘dog and owner look alike’ and ‘most unique costume.’ Proceeds benefit the Door County Humane Society. Other events include a brat fry, a 50/50 raffle and a pet psychic. The events will be held from 11 am – 3 pm and the parade will be at 2 pm.

Of course, several places will have the traditional parades and fireworks. These tried and true favorites are sure to put everyone in a festive mood. Locations and times of these events are listed in the Events Calendar.

If you’re looking for some good food, you’ll find brats, burgers, corn on the cob, and plenty to drink in villages all over the peninsula. For those with a more traditional palate, the American Legion on Washington Island will be doing a fish boil around 4 pm.

Once you’re fed, be sure to check out all that’s going on, including an ice cream social in Sturgeon Bay (if you still have room), an arts and crafts fair in Baileys Harbor featuring over 50 artists and crafters.

There’s certainly no shortage of things to do in Door County this Fourth of July, so join family, friends, pets, or just yourself and enjoy all that the peninsula has to offer.