Celebrate our nation’s birthday

This year marks the 250th anniversary, or semiquincentennial, of the United States recognizing the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. With that in mind, The Miner has compiled a list of events coming up this week in the Pend Oreille River Valley in Washington and Idaho that celebrates the Fourth of July. Most events are free, unless otherwise listed. Whatever you choose to do, wherever you choose to be, have fun, be safe with those fireworks and happy Independence Day.

Celebrate with the Kalispels

The Kalispel Tribe of Indians hosts fireworks and family-friendly fun at Kalispel Casino on Friday, July 3 in Cusick. The July Three Jamboree happens before the Kalispel Tribe’s annual fireworks display. Bring the family to Kalispel Casino’s free outdoor party beginning at 4 p.m. on Friday, July 3. There will be a petting zoo, inflatable bounce castles and water toys, so bring towels and a change of clothes for the kids.

Food will be available for purchase from local vendors. Plan to come early and stay late as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of America a day early with the Kalispel Tribe’s annual fireworks display in Pend Oreille County on Friday night.

The fireworks show starts just after 10 p.m. and will light up the night sky over the reservation in Cusick, providing a breathtaking experience for all. Watch from Kalispel Casino or enjoy the best fireworks around from a favorite viewing spot.

Find more details about the Kalispel Tribe’s Independence Weekend celebrations at www. kalispeltribe.com/our-story/ independence-weekend.

Party in Priest River

The Priest River Chamber of Commerce has brought back its fireworks display, put on at dusk over the Pend Oreille River Saturday, July 4. Watch from downtown Priest River at the city park or from Bonner Park West.

The Odd Fellows Lodge #47 and Priest River Youth Connections host the second annual 4th of July Family Fun Festival on Main Street in Priest River, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be games, prizes, booths, food and more.

Diamond Lake Half Marathon

The 4th of July Diamond Lake Half Marathon welcomes every skill level, with the course running a little over 13 miles in and around Diamond Lake.

An optional mile-long swim starts at 6 a.m.; the race starts approximately at 7:15 a.m.

There is a $10 entry fee. To register, search Diamond Lake 4th of July Marathon in groups on Facebook (private group, must request to join) or email [email protected].

Boat Parade

The annual, informal 4th of July Boat Parade returns to Diamond Lake around 2 p.m. at the boat launch. Participants can decorate their watercraft, non-motorized or not, to parade around the lake. Participants should wear life jackets and be mindful of others on the lake.

Celebrate in Metaline

There will be a 4th of July potluck at Metaline Riverfront Park around 5:30 p.m. Meat will be provided, and participants are asked to bring their own beverages, seating and a potluck dish. No personal fireworks are allowed at this event. Donations for the meat and fireworks are not required but appreciated.

Spirit Lake 4th of July Parade

Dress in red, white and blue and bring a chair to Big Park Spirit Lake to enjoy the annual 4th of July Parade at 11 a.m.

There will be an outdoor market and activities from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., food vendors, live entertainment and fireworks at dusk. The event is hosted by the Spirit Lake Community Coalition.

For more information, go to www.spiritlakecc.org.