BEST BESTS

Get Ready For 4th’s

Parades, Fireworks,

Concerts, Boats!

By LIBBY CUDMORE • Special to www.AllOTSEGO.com

Independence Day is Thursday, July 4, but it’s not too early to start making plans for how to celebrate! There are parades on land and water, old-fashioned farm fun,
music, games and, of course, fireworks!

•

Oneonta’s annual Hometown Fourth of July starts with a 5K Color Run at 9 a.m. and ends with fireworks at dusk – with plenty of fun in between! The annual parade is at noon, followed by an afternoon of fun in the park, including music, bounce houses, a baseball game, and a visit from Oneonta’s own Ninja Warrior, Anthony Eardley, all free of charge. 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Neahwa Park, Oneonta. Info, schedule www.hometown4th.com

•

The second-oldest Fourth of July parade in the country is right here in Springfield Center, with fancy floats, a fife and drum corps, a flag-raising ceremony and Revolutionary War display, as well as games, food and live music to follow. Stick around for fireworks and a community concert in the evening! 11 a.m.-dusk, Springfield Community Center, 129 County Route 29A, Springfield Center, Info, schedule, “Springfield 4th of July Parade and Celebration” on Facebook.

•

Remember what Independence Day is all about with a reading of the Declaration of Independence at The Farmers’ Museum, complete with a traditional militia muster. Then stick around for tintype portraits and a tour of the 19th-century celebrations on the farm. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. The Farmers’ Museum, Cooperstown. Info, schedule www.farmersmuseum.org

•

If fireworks are too loud, head out to the Windfall Dutch Barn for the annual Quiet Concert for the Fourth, featuring a program of classical Indian music. Bring a dish to pass and enjoy a potluck supper! 4 p.m., Windfall Dutch Barn, Salt Springville. Info 607-436-3419.

•

But Independence Day isn’t just for the Fourth of July! In Cooperstown, the annual patriotic concert and fireworks display will be held 8 p.m. Friday, July 5, in Lakefront Park. Start your weekend with a bang!

•

Parades aren’t just for the streets! The annual Boat Parade. This year’s theme is “Red, White & Blue,” so decorate up your boat and try to win a prize. 4 p.m. Lakefront Park, Cooperstown. Info 518-542-6630

•

And don’t take off the decorations just yet! There’s a second boat parade at Canadarago Lake, with fireworks to follow. 6 p.m. Saturday, July 5, Canadarago Boat Launch, Richfield Springs.