Independence Day Celebration
Where Community Comes Together
Celebrate Independence Day with family-friendly activities, local traditions, and support for the volunteers who help keep our community safe.
July 4th and 5th, 2026
Crystal Lakes Independence Day Celebration
Join us for one of Crystal Lakes’ favorite summer traditions—a weekend of family fun, community spirit, and small-town Independence Day celebrations in the mountains.
Hosted by CL FIRES and the Crystal Lakes Volunteer Fire Department, this annual event brings neighbors, visitors, and families together for activities that celebrate our community while supporting local programs and volunteer firefighters.
Whether you’re decorating your OHV for the Tour de Fun, cheering on your duck in the Duck Race, bidding in the Silent Auction, or simply enjoying time with friends and neighbors, there’s something for everyone.
All activities are open to the community, and we hope you’ll join us for a memorable holiday weekend.
2026 Event Schedule
Saturday, July 4
Basecamp
6:00 PM
🍦 Ice Cream Social
Free while supplies last.
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
💦 Water Demo
Adults and kids can take a turn operating a fire hose and spraying water with assistance from CLVFD members.
🎯 Family Games
🚒 Pose with the Fire Truck
Climb aboard, strike a pose, and snap a photo with one of our fire engines.
🔨 Silent Auction Opens
Browse and begin bidding on a variety of donated items. Proceeds support CL FIRES programs and community safety initiatives.
Sunday, July 5
9:00 AM Tour de Fun
Decorate your OHV and join the fire trucks for a community parade through Crystal Lakes.
Meet at the Mail Shed at 8:30 AM
10:30 AM Duck Race
Snoopy Pond
Watch hundreds of adopted ducks race for prizes while supporting CL FIRES.
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM Silent Auction
Final bidding and winner announcements.
11:30 AM Free Community Lunch
First come, first served.
1:00 PM Cake Walk
A favorite community tradition that’s fun for all ages. No entry fee required.
Adopt Your Duck
Support CL FIRES by adopting one (or several!) race ducks.
Ducks may be adopted:
- Saturdays at Basecamp (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
- At the Ice Cream Social on July 4
- Online
Winning ducks receive prizes, but every duck helps support community programs, education, and safety initiatives throughout the year.
Silent Auction
The Silent Auction is one of our biggest annual fundraisers.
Funds raised help support CL FIRES community programs, education efforts, and safety initiatives that benefit Crystal Lakes and surrounding communities.
Bidding opens Saturday evening and closes Sunday at 12:30 PM.