Columbia’s Glorious 4th of July Celebration begins with an 11 a.m. flag raising and black powder musket salute Monday, July 4, followed by a free concert from the Great Mother Lode Brass and Reed Band, as well as several traditional games and the annual Independence Day parade.
July 4th in Columbia has been a tradition since at least 1852 and is the longest continuously running event in the county and perhaps even the entire Motherlode. It is fun for the entire family with activities for all ages. Pete Brandt, a volunteer for over 20 years has said, “It’s the most fun you can have in public that’s legal.”
Registration for the parade starts at 10:30 a.m. in front of the Fallon Hotel. All are welcome to march in the procession at noon, but vehicles must be at least 50 years old and animals must weigh less than 100 pounds. Awards will be given at 2 p.m. at the judges’ stand.
Other holiday activities will occur in various locations throughout Columbia State Historic Park. Games include Needle in the Haystack at 11:30 a.m. in front of the livery stable, the Watermelon Eating Contest at 1 p.m. in front of the Columbia House, the Bucket Brigade at 1 p.m. behind the livery stable, a Nail Pounding Contest at 2 p.m. in front of the Blacksmith Shop, a Greased Pole Contest at 2 p.m. between the Mercantile and the Firehouse, an Egg Relay Race and Egg Toss on Main Street at 2:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. respectively, a Cake Walk at 3 p.m. at the Fallon House Garden, and a Five Way Tug-o-War at 3:30 p.m. behind the bank across from Eagle Cottage. The Columbia Chamber of Commerce requests a $1 donation per person per event.
The Chamber also invites guests and Columbia residents to stay for a 4 p.m. pulled pork barbeque followed by a town photo. Tickets are limited and cost $10 for adults and $6 for children. Pre-sale barbeque tickets may be purchased at Brown’s Coffee Shop or the Douglas Saloon. They will also be available at the Chamber’s information booth the day of the event.
“This is not a reproduction,” event organizer Mike Keene said. “This is small town America doing what it does best.”
For more information on the celebration, see http://www.visitcolumbiacalifornia.com/
