Rhinelander announces expanded America 250 Fourth of July celebration

The Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce is inviting the community and visitors alike to celebrate Independence Day in true Northwoods style this year, with a full day of festivities carrying special significance as communities across the nation recognize America 250 — the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
“Fourth of July in Rhinelander has always been about tradition, community, and bringing people together,” said Lauren Sackett, CEO of the Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce. “This year gives us an opportunity to celebrate not only our country’s history, but also the pride and spirit that make Rhinelander such a special place to call home.”
A Full Day of Festivities
The celebration on Saturday, July 4 opens with the Rhinelander Lions Club Kiddie Parade at 10 a.m. Participants should line up by 9:30 a.m. near Zion Church/School on Frederick Street. For Kiddie Parade questions, contact Tim Gengler at 715-490-2470.
The community’s main parade steps off at 11 a.m. through downtown Rhinelander, themed “America: 250 Years of Independence.” The procession begins at the Police Station on Frederick Street, heads south on Brown Street, turns east on Anderson Street, and concludes heading north on Stevens Street to Rives Street.

Community groups, businesses, organizations, and families are encouraged to join in this longstanding tradition celebrating patriotism and hometown pride. Parade applications are available now through the Rhinelander Chamber of Commerce.
The day will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display at dusk at Hodag Park.
Parade Highlights
This year’s parade features a strong musical lineup, including the Rhinelander High School Band, the Rhinelander Community Band, the Edgar High School Band, the Janesville Fife and Drum Corps, the internationally recognized Pipes and Drums of Thunder Bay, and the popular Zor Funsters. Awards will be presented for the DRI Master Parade in four categories: Non-Profit, Business, Marching, and General.
Organizers are also seeking antique, new, or otherwise sharp cars and trucks to serve as lead vehicles for sponsored parade units. Interested owners should contact Dale Schlieve at 715-369-1814 or 2schlieve@charter.net.
Patriotic Flyover
A patriotic flyover is planned as part of the day’s festivities, with route and timing details to be announced. Veterans Ceremony organizers have confirmed Rhinelander is on the F-35 flyover tour list, with formal confirmation expected in mid-June.
2,500 American Flags Along the Route
In a new addition to this year’s celebration, organizers will distribute 2,500 small American flags along the parade route before the parade begins, encouraging attendees to wave them as a visible tribute to the nation’s 250th anniversary. Volunteers are currently being sought to help with flag distribution prior to the parade’s start.
America 250 Community Contests
Two special contests are open to the public as part of the America 250 celebration.
The new Patriotic Decor Challenge invites businesses, homeowners, apartment residents, and community members to decorate their homes, storefronts, and outdoor spaces in red, white, and blue. Participants submit photos of their displays for community voting on social media, with prizes awarded to winning entries.
The Patriotic Expressions Contest welcomes original written reflections on “Our Country’s 250th Year of Independence.” The contest features both youth and adult age categories, with winning entries receiving cash prizes, publication opportunities, and recognition during the Fourth of July festivities. Entry forms and details are available on the Chamber’s website.
Support the Celebration
Community members wishing to support the parade or fireworks can send donations to Dale Schlieve, 312 Conro St., Rhinelander, WI 54501. Checks should be made payable to DRI or the Rhinelander Chamber of Commerce.
For full details on parade registration, contest participation, volunteer opportunities, and event information, visit www.RhinelanderChamber.com/4thofJuly.