Marysville is gearing up for a full day of fun this Independence Day with An Old-Fashioned Fourth of July on Friday, July 4. The day features three distinct events—each hosted by a different community group—all offering something for all ages.
The celebration begins at 9 a.m. with the Walk, Run or Ride on the Blue River Rail Trail. Starting at Backroads Bicycle, 706 Broadway, participants are invited to enjoy the scenic trail at their own pace. A scavenger hunt along the route for kids 12 and under adds a playful twist. Food and drinks will be provided, and Blue River Rail Trail T-shirts will be available for purchase.
At 10 a.m., the action shifts to the Marysville Historic Union Pacific Depot for the Road Rally, sponsored by the Marysville U.P. Depot Preservation Society. This countryside clue-hunting adventure challenges teams to follow directions, answer questions and cover the route in the best time. Cost is $10 per person ($5 for children under 12, $40 max per vehicle). For an additional $10, people may preregister and receive a set start time. All proceeds benefit the preservation of the historic depot.
The afternoon’s activities take place in Marysville City Park, where OneMarysville hosts a variety of free games and activities from 1 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. and again from 3 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. Children and families can try croquet, disc golf, kite flying, lemonade pong, a water balloon toss and other hands-on games. Food trucks, including It’s a Sweet Treat Day Bakery and Mama Ging’s House of Lumpia, will be on-site from 12 p.m. until 5 p.m.
At 2:30 p.m., two parades—the Bike Parade and the Pet Parade—will take place side by side, offering double the fun. Participants are welcome to decorate their bikes, dress up their pets and join the celebration winding through Marysville City Park. Prizes will be awarded in each parade in the following categories:
- Best in Show – The top honor for creativity and style
- Most Patriotic – A celebration of red-white-and-blue pride
- Best Group Entry – For coordinated families, friends or teams with a standout theme
Winners of Best in Show and Most Patriotic in each parade will receive $25 in Chamber Bucks, while the Best Group Entry winner in each parade will earn $50 in Chamber Bucks. A Parade Prep Station will be available in the park earlier in the day, offering supplies for anyone who wants to add a little extra flair to their entry.
“This is truly a celebration for everyone,” said Brian Fragel, chairperson for the afternoon’s activities. “We wanted to create an event where kids, parents and grandparents can all have fun together.”
Volunteers are needed to help from 12:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. and again from 2:30 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. Those interested can call 785-562-3101 or email marysvillecms@gmail.com. A volunteer T-shirt will be provided.
