St. Germain will kick off its Fourth of July festivities early with its annual Independence Day Celebration on Sunday, June 28, at St. Germain Community Park.

Highlights include the Freedom 5K and 1K Kids Run/Walk at 8:30 and 9:30 a.m., respectively, a craft fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., a parade at 3 p.m. and fireworks at dusk.

The event, which this year also serves as an early local observance of America's 250th birthday, draws residents and visitors from throughout the Northwoods for a full day of family-friendly activities and entertainment.

The races are hosted by the St. Germain Silent Trails User Association. Race-day registration and packet pickup begin at 7:30 a.m. Proceeds support the maintenance and expansion of the community's nonmotorized trail system. More information is available at freedom5k.org.

In addition to the craft fair, sponsored by the St. Germain Area Chamber of Commerce, the celebration will feature demonstrations by local organizations, bounce houses and family activities, live music and food and beverages provided by the St. Germain Lions Club.

The annual parade begins at 3 p.m. on Highway 70 and will be led by motorcycles. The parade traditionally features community organizations, businesses, emergency services, floats and other entries from throughout the area, drawing spectators along the route each year.

New this year is the Battle of the Beards competition at 7 p.m., featuring Lumberjack, Santa Look-Alike, Refined Romantic and Best Mustache categories. Entry is free. Participants may register at st-germain.com or before 4 p.m. on the day of the event.

The day concludes with fireworks at dusk. Community members are encouraged to show their patriotic spirit by wearing red, white and blue while participating in the day's activities as part of America's 250th birthday celebration.

St. Germain Community Park is located at 545 Highway 155. A full schedule of events is available at townofstgermain.org. For more information, call the chamber at 715-477-2205.

See stories about other upcoming Fourth of July celebrations throughout this publication. A complete listing of events in all area communities will be included in next week's edition.