I have vivid memories of the annual 4th of July parade in Elkhart Lake as a child. Whether I was walking with a team or club, watching curbside in front of the bar my grandparents owned downtown, or jumping with excitement as my Dad pointed at me from one of the fire trucks, the sights and sounds of the 4th of July in Elkhart Lake are special. Years later, I still find myself thinking about those parades. About the way the whole town seemed to come together in celebration. The village, the people, a rhythm of life you do not realize you miss until it’s gone.
Now, in my older years, it’s that blend of excitement and comfort, of knowing nearly everyone lining the sidewalks. It’s running into your fourth-grade teacher, watching my own kids in the parade, and following the Badger Band down to Fireman’s park to enjoy a brat or burger. Every 4th of July, no matter where I am, a part of me is back in Elkhart Lake—candy in hand, heart full, and the firetrucks just starting to roll by.
Whether you’re a lifelong local or visiting for the first time, there’s something magical about the 4th of July in Elkhart Lake. It’s not just a celebration, it’s a tradition, a gathering, and a moment that brings us all a little closer together.
Check out the full schedule of events and find your own way to be part of the celebration.
Friday, July 4th
Live Music by 8 Second Ride
7pm to 11pm | The Osthoff Lake Deck
Live Music by KOJO
7pm to 11pm | Tiki Bar at Shore Club
Saturday, July 5th
6th Annual 4th of July Boat Parade
11am | Lakefront
Celebrate Independence Day with one of Elkhart Lake’s favorite traditions. Watch as a colorful fleet of decorated boats cruises the shoreline, showing off their red, white, and blue spirit. Grab a spot along the lakefront and enjoy the festive fun on the water.
Elkhart Lake Fireman’s Picnic
5-11pm | Fireman’s Park & Beach
Come out to support the Elkhart Lake Fire Department at the Annual Fireman’s Picnic and enjoy food, drinks, and live music. Organized by the Elkhart Lake Fire Department.
5-7pm | Live Music by Ebert’s Dancing Machine
7:30-11pm | Live Music by Road Trip
Elkhart Lake Fireman’s Fireworks
Dusk (9:30pm) | Lakefront
This is going to be a firework show for the books! Grab a chair, blanket, friends, and family and head down to the lakefront on Saturday evening for the firework show over the lake. Organized by the Elkhart Lake Fire Department.
Live Music by Vic Ferrari
7pm to 11pm (Break for Fireworks Show) | The Osthoff Lake Deck
Live Music by Nitro 5
7pm to 11pm | Tiki Bar at Shore Club
Sunday, July 6th
Elkhart Lake Fireman’s Parade
11:30am | Downtown Elkhart lake
Blankets and chairs will line the streets of downtown during the best small town parade in Wisconsin. Enjoy the outdoor Bloody Mary bars and the overload of red, white, and blue! Beginning behind Siebkens Resort and ending at Fireman’s park. Organized by the Elkhart Lake Fire Department.
Elkhart Lake Fireman’s Picnic
Following the Parade to 5pm | Fireman’s Park & Beach
Come out to support the Elkhart Lake Fire Department at the Annual Fireman’s Picnic and enjoy food, drinks, and live music. Organized by the Elkhart Lake Fire Department.
Following the Parade | 5th Quarter Show by the Badger Band
1:30 to 5pm | Live Music by Rebel Grace
Live Music by Boat Drinks
2pm to 6pm | The Osthoff Lake Deck
Live Music by Mama Ginger & The Red Hots
4pm to 8pm | Tiki Bar at Shore Club
We want to extend a sincere thank you to the Elkhart Lake Fire Department. From organizing the parade and picnic to coordinating the fireworks show, your hard work and dedication create the magic we all look forward to each year. These traditions wouldn’t be possible without your time, effort, and commitment to the community.
Thank you for keeping us safe, bringing us together, and making the 4th of July in Elkhart Lake something truly unforgettable.
Meet The Author
A proud Elkhart Lake native, Melissa Koehler returned to her hometown with her husband, Mike, to raise their twin sons in the community they love. Melissa is “livin’ the dream” as the Executive Director of the Elkhart Lake Chamber of Commerce and President of the Elkhart Lake Education Foundation. Her passion for community, education, and local connection shines through in everything she does. With deep roots and an even deeper commitment, Melissa is a true ambassador for Elkhart Lake.
