Floats, food, and flying cars: 4th of July in the Mat-Su

While the Mat-Su Borough remains under a Burn Permit Suspension, meaning fireworks displays are off the table, that does not diminish the Independence Day festivities around the Mat-Su Borough. Here in the Mat-Su Valley, Fourth of July celebrations are all about daytime fun, as Alaska’s extended summer daylight, sunset often comes well after 11:00 p.m.

Instead, folks around the Mat-Su make the most of the sunshine with parades, picnics, and all-day cookouts.

Here is a breakdown of different events around the Borough to celebrate America’s 249th birthday

Wasilla

In Wasilla, July 4 opens with the annual parade that rolls through downtown starting promptly at 11 a.m., drawing a crowd eager for floats, marching bands, and fire trucks.

After the parade, people are invited to Iditarod Park, where the Mayor’s Picnic offers free food, live music, and laid‑back summer camaraderie.

Willow

The Willow Area Community Organization (WACO) will once again host Willow’s 4th of July Parade and Celebration this Friday. Parade floats should gather at 11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church. The parade starts at the First Baptist Church at noon and travels to the Willow Community Center.

Following the parade is a celebration at the Community Center; there will be a contest for the most patriotic outfit and a community BBQ beginning at 1:30 p.m. More information can be found on WACO’s Facebook Page.

Talkeetna

Talkeetna’s 4th of July Parade meanders down Main Street in downtown Talkeetna, beginning at Denali Education Center at 12 p.m. In keeping with the unique vibe of Talkeetna, the parade loops back in reverse. It’s short, sweet, and uniquely Talkeetna, full of handmade floats, classic trucks, and plenty of Alaskan spirit. Afterward, stroll nearby for live music or a cold drink as the town settles into its own summertime rhythm.

The Denali Arts Council and Talkeetna Chamber of Commerce host ‘Live at Five,’ a family-friendly music event at the Talkeetna Village Park, on Fridays at 5 p.m., rain or shine. The band this week is Denali Cooks.

Glacier View

At this time, plans are full-steam ahead with plans to work around Mother Nature and make this event happen for all those who love Arnie’s 4th of July in Glacier View. The unique and entertaining celebration, famous for launching cars is billed as a day of freedom, family, fun, faith, and friends.

Among the vehicles to be launched, at this time: New Yorker, 1983 Silverado, Dodge Caravan, a Ford Taurus, and a Ford Explorer. Vehicles rumored to be launched include a Pink Barbie Corvette, Minivan, Jeep, 4x Tracker, Motorhome, and so many more.

Ticket Fee (purchased at the gate): Adults (13 and up): $20, Children (2-13): $10. Discounted rates for Glacier View Residents. Gates open at 8:30 a.m. Launchings begin around 2:00 p.m.