A Fourth to Remember

From Main Street to Springs Country Club and across to the city park, Wessington Springs came alive as residents and visitors kicked off one of the community’s largest Fourth of July gatherings in years while helping celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. 

Crowds lined the parade route before spending the afternoon enjoying activities for all ages, creating the kind of hometown celebration many remembered from years past. 

Wessington Springs native Chris Schimke, who drove the Shriner van in Saturday’s parade, summed up the day best: “When I turned the corner onto Main Street and saw it lined with flags and so many people, I couldn’t help but feel the nostalgia of what I experienced as a kid growing up in Wessington Springs.” 

The success of the celebration reflected months of planning by the Wessington Springs Area Chamber & Development, working alongside local organizations, businesses and volunteers to expand activities and create a full day of family-friendly events. 

Parade judges recognized the Wessington Springs Volunteer Fire Department with the George Washington Award, the Wetzel Family with the Stars and Stripes Award, and Leap to Lane with the Liberty Bell Award. This photo collage captures only a small glimpse of an unforgettable day. To relive the celebration and browse hundreds of additional photos, visit the PHOTO GALLERY