Sioux Falls Cancels 2025 July 4 Parade Citing Low Participation

The annual Fourth of July parade in Sioux Falls has been canceled for 2025 due to a low number of participants, marking the third consecutive year without the event. In place of the parade, the city is hosting a full week of Independence Day celebrations from June 29 through July 5, featuring a variety of free activities such as a community lunch for the first 2,000 attendees, free swimming with patriotic-themed games, the Levitt at the Falls concert series including vocalist Andrea Ross, an Open Streets event with games and activities, a cornhole tournament, a bike parade, and a watermelon roll contest. Additional events include a Municipal Band concert, a Celebrate America event with crafts and trivia, an All-American Field Day with classic games, free fishing with equipment provided, and family-friendly activities at various parks and venues. These changes aim to encourage residents to participate in alternative festivities and maintain community spirit despite the cancellation of the parade. The city continues to promote engagement through a diverse lineup of entertainment and recreational events spread throughout the holiday week.