While thousands take in Fargo AirSho 2003 in Fargo Friday, thousands more will be across the river at Minnesota State University Moorhead's 31st Annual Fourth of July celebration.
This year's Independence Day event kicks off at 8 a.m. with a 10-kilometer run and closes at dusk with MSUM's popular fireworks display at Nemzek Stadium.
"We expect between 12,000 and 20,000 are in the stands and on the grounds, but who knows?" said Gwen Johanson, coordinator of the event.
"Let Freedom Ring" is the theme of this year's event.
On Monday, volunteers will begin placing 14,187 U.S. flags, commemorating those North Dakota and Minnesota soldiers lost in wars and conflicts going back to the Spanish American War, on Nemzek Field.
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The flag display will remain in place through July 9.
Between 8,000 and 12,000 are expected on campus for afternoon family-style events and activities. A complete schedule of events is online at www.mnstate.edu .
Among the most popular events are the 10K run, kiddie races (11 a.m.), and bicycle parade (1:30 p.m.)
In addition to the Airsho and MSUM events next weekend, area Fourth of July celebrations are being held in Carrington and Fort Ransom, N.D.:
- Carrington -- Parade, "America's largest birthday cake" and fireworks at the fairgrounds. (701) 652-2524.
- Detroit Lakes, Minn. -- Fireworks display on city beach. (218) 847-9202. Also, the 10,000 Lakes Fest runs from Thursday through Saturday.
- Fort Ransom -- Rodeo, street dance, auction sale, kiddie parade, car show, flea market, art show, tractor pull and more. (701) 973-4311.
- Hankinson, N.D. -- Beach party at Lake Elsie from 1 to 5 p.m., parade in morning, dinner at Legion hall. (701) 242-8220.
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Readers can reach Forum reporter Gerry Gilmour at (701) 241-5560
