Three Rivers has a long tradition of celebrating Independence Day with unforgettable patriotic celebrations. Those looking for Independence Day fun can pick from a variety of summer events. You can enjoy everything from lively parades to spectacular fireworks over the river.
These summer events are perfect for seniors as they tend to be more family-friendly. Are you looking for some senior-friendly holiday ideas? Read on for some of the best Fourth of July activities and Three Rivers gatherings.
On the 4th of July, from 12 pm until 3 pm, the Old Fashioned 4th of July and Veterans Park Queue will take place in historic Charlton Park. Kicking off the event at noon, there will be a flag raising ceremony in which representatives from all 5 branches of the military will come together and pay patriotic tributes to the occasion.
Following the ceremony, you'll be able to enjoy a BBQ buffet hosted by the American Legion. Usually, the buffet is affordable, expect to pay around $10 a person. But keep in mind that admission to the park itself is free, and you only need to pay if you want to join in with the BBQ buffet.
After the buffet, there will be various activities that are perfect for family fun. For example, expect to see:
Naturally, ribbons will be awarded to successful and even unsuccessful participants.
The park areas will remain open from 8 am until 9 pm, so you'll be able to enjoy the local beach trails. It's an ideal event for families with kids, those who want to support veterans, or for older folks who want to enjoy some nostalgic, community-focused fun.
Here we have one of the most unique Fourth of July activities.
In 1995, Berrien Springs was officially known as the Christmas capital of the world by the Pickle Packers International Company, and it began hosting a pickled parade and festival that ran every year until the mid-2000s. This tradition has its roots in the custom of placing a pickled onion on a Christmas tree. Areas like Berrien Springs embrace this tradition because of the local pickle production.
The festival ran from the early 90s until the mid-2000s, but they were abruptly discontinued for over a decade. In June 2001, the festival was revived, but instead of having it in December as a Christmas event, they decided to revamp it as a 4th of July celebration. This is a quirky and fun event that fully embraces the absurdity of having an event dedicated to pickles.
Since the event's resurgence, organizers have reinstated events like the Pickle Toss. You'll find many pickle-themed booths and activities, making this festival perfect for families and quirky festival lovers alike. If you're looking for an event that's sure to get some attention on social media, this is the perfect festival to take some unique photos.
In 2025, the festival is set to return for its fifth anniversary since its resurrection. If you don't like crowds, this could be one to avoid, as over 7,500 attendees are predicted by local media.
Expect all of the classic festival games and vendors. The festival will also have a parade, which will start on the 4th of July at 4 pm. The festival is free to attend, offering a fun mix of family celebrations and small-town charm.
On July 4, the Cascade Falls in Jackson will once again put on its famous fireworks and light show. This event has been going on for almost a century.
Sparks Foundation County Park will open at 6 p.m. Visitors have plenty of time to find the perfect spot before dusk settles. It's a great event for seniors who get a little anxious because of the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
As night falls, the massive, multi-tiered waterfalls will be illuminated with colored lights, all meticulously choreographed to a patriotic soundtrack.
Around 10 p.m., the fireworks will begin, launched from the hillside above the cascades. This display typically lasts about 20 to 25 minutes and is also accompanied by synchronized music. Entry is $10 per person, but children under the age of ten are admitted free of charge.
Constructed in 1932, Jackson's Cascade Falls have long been considered one of its most loved landmarks. This occasion is ideal for families or anyone who enjoys a nostalgic summer evening. Expect a lively, community-focused atmosphere that celebrates both history and spectacle.
At Pike Memorial Park in Akron, Indiana, you can expect a full day of patriotic festivities on July 4. This celebration begins early at 7 am with a substantial Fireman's Breakfast. Around 9 am, there will be a flag-raising ceremony honoring both veterans and active-duty service members.
Throughout the day, you can visit vendor tents, taste popular regional bites, and join in with lighthearted contests. It's a comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere.
Here are some of the highlights you can expect:
Admission is free, and parking is available near the park. If you plan to shop, don't forget to bring cash for the vendors.
The event concludes with a fireworks show at 10 p.m. This celebration is perfect for anyone who enjoys a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere with plenty of old-fashioned charm.
Not every senior is capable of making it out to all these Fourth of July activities. Thankfully, local senior living communities have all kinds of Fourth of July activities and senior-friendly patriotic celebrations. Here at LakeHouse Three Rivers, our supportive assisted living solutions ensure every senior has a chance to enjoy enriching 4th of July events.
Are you looking for a helpful senior living community with enriching assisted living options? Here at LakeHouse Three Rivers, we make sure every resident has a great time during the holidays. Contact us today and set up a tour of our community.