One of Prior Lake’s most festive — and certainly most patriotic — events will be held on Saturday, July 4, as our nation celebrates 250 years of independence.
Area residents are invited to the city’s annual July 4 boat parade sponsored by the Prior Lake Association and Knotty Oar Marina.
The parade of decorated boats will depart at 1 p.m. that day in front of Charlie’s on Prior with judges stationed in the no-wake channel near the Knotty Oar Marina, according to Adam Proehl, commodore of the Prior Lake Association. Boats will then travel under the Wagon Bridge, through the no-wake channel and end near Reed’s Island.
Local residents are encouraged to enter the big summer event by joining friends, neighbors and coworkers in creating an innovative boat float. Last year’s July 4 parade had 17 entries. Participation is open to all.
Use this link to be part of the floating parade. Registration is free, and entrants can compete for cash prizes in categories such as pontoons, runabouts and PWCs. Participants are required to display their assigned parade number prominently on both sides of their watercraft.
Prizes will include:
- Grand prize (first place): $500 and a trophy
- Second place: $250 and a trophy
- Third place: $100 and a trophy
The association will follow its usual tradition that draws playful and interesting parade enthusiasts. A $250 prize will again be awarded to the “Most Patriotic” themed entry and another $250 to the best “Laker Pride” float.
July 4 festivities will conclude with a fireworks display scheduled to begin at 10 p.m., also hosted by the Prior Lake Association through financial contributions made by local businesses and service organizations.
