Findlay is Flag City, USA – so it makes sense that there is plenty to do over Independence Day, right?  For me, the Fourth of July is my favorite holiday, I love gathering with family and friends, enjoying fireworks, and eating – a lot.  If you’ve never celebrated the Fourth in Findlay we’ve got you covered with this step-by-step guide so you don’t miss a thing!

Step 1: Get to know the schedule

When I moved to Findlay 8 years ago one of the hardest things to adjust to was getting to know the annual dates that holidays and events were celebrated so I didn’t miss any of the fun.  For example, the Halloween Parade is always the Thursday of the last full week of October (as long as the 31 is also during that week!), the tree lighting ceremony is always the day after Thanksgiving (also the kickoff to WinterFest), and the Fourth of July fireworks are always on July 3 with the parade the next morning and the rain date is July 5, if needed!).  See the full schedule of Fourth of July events on our event calendar!

Step 2: Arrive early to the Fireworks

The Lighting Up the Sky firework show at the Hancock County Fairgrounds is truly spectacular.  But to see the show up close make plans to arrive early.  The gates open at 4 p.m. and there are children’s activities and food vendors and the Eric Sowers Band will be playing as well.  Make sure to pack plenty of bug spray, sunscreen, a blanket and chairs, and maybe a sweatshirt – although the forecast looks warm it gets chilly when the sun goes down!  See all the details here!

Step 3: Pick the Best Spot for the Parade

The Fourth of July parade through Downtown Findlay isn’t to be missed.  The parade will begin at the intersection of Baldwin and Main at 11 a.m. before heading North on Main Street and ending at the Veterans Memorial.  You can’t go wrong with any of the spots on either side of Main Street.

Step 4: Cool off with an Ice Cream Social

Although the Hancock Historical Museum will be closed for tours, you can celebrate Independence Day on the porch of the Hull House with an old fashioned Ice Cream Social from Noon – 2 p.m. on the Fourth of July.  The museum has a few options to choose from, all at affordable prices.  1 scoop is $1, a root-beer float is $2, or enjoy a sundae bar for $3.  Plus, you can take a look at the 13 Star Flag, the only of its kind available for viewing, for free!  The Flag returns back to its home on July 5 – so make sure you see it before it is gone!

Step 5: Enjoy your BBQ with Local Goods

Only a few of our local restaurants are open on the Fourth but that doesn’t mean you need to skimp on local options!  Purchase your local produce and meat at any of our local food shops, including Brinkman’s Market, Great Scot, The Dough Hook, and The Food Store.  Most of these locations are closed on the Fourth of July so plan ahead!

Step 6: Get Active!

Our parks are the perfect place to walk off some Fourth of July calories, but if you want to try something new rent canoes, kayaks, or pedal-boats at Zonta Landing, located at Riverside Park.  Boat rentals are $5 for 30 minutes and offer a lot of fun.  While you’re at Riverside Park take advantage of the StoryWalk!  This walking path has pages of children’s books located along it so while you walk you can read a book – exercise your body and your mind this holiday!

From fireworks and parades to ice cream and live music, I hope you take advantage of all Flag City has to offer this Fourth of July!

This blog post is written by Visit Findlay Community Relations and Development Manager Danielle Wilkin.  Danielle is a reality TV aficionado, frequent Downtown diner, and a busy mom!  That isn’t much, is it?  See more about Danielle and read more from her here!

This post was originally published on June 29, 2018.  It has since been updated and republished.