Category: Local Heroes 4th of July Celebration

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Through My Parade Lens: Thank You for a Joyful 2025 Local Heroes Celebration!

July 9, 2025 | Julie Malkin-Manning

The Local Heroes Celebration includes so many incredible events—and we hope you enjoyed them all while spending time with our amazing community. But for me, the heart of it all is the parade.

2025 marks the fifth year I’ve been involved in producing the Local Heroes Parade, which I’ve come to think of as my day to make smiles. And wow—this year’s parade truly delivered on the smiles!

The 2025 Local Heroes Parade and Community Fair brought our town together once again in a spirit of gratitude, pride, and connection—and it wouldn’t have been possible without each of you.

To Our Participants:

Thank you for showing up with so much creativity, color, and contagious energy. This year’s parade featured more than 65 vehicles—a vibrant procession of floats, flags, marching groups, classic cars, and joyful faces.

Whether you marched, danced, rolled, or waved from a float, you brought the parade to life. The Kids Bike Parade set the tone with streamers, sparkles, and young riders full of pride. Huge thanks to the Diamond Peak Ski Team for keeping the bike parade safe and stylish with top-notch decor and coordination!

Don’t miss the fun: [Check out this behind-the-scenes video of parade staging.]
2025 Parade Photo Gallery: [View the full collection here.]

To Our Organizers and Volunteers:

It truly takes a village, and there are far more names and organizations than I can list. But please know—your behind-the-scenes dedication did not go unnoticed.

From long days spent draping the community and parade route in red, white, and blue, to early morning set-up and day-of logistics, your teamwork made everything run smoothly. You make it look easy—and I know it’s anything but!

To Our Community:

Lining the streets in patriotic pride, cheering on friends and neighbors, waving flags, and then gathering on the Village Green for the Community Fair and BBQ—you remind me why this tradition matters.

There’s truly nothing like a small-town 4th of July celebration, and I’m so grateful to help shape ours through the lens of the parade.

These events not only celebrate our nation but also honor the local heroes who make Incline Village and Crystal Bay such a special place to live. Thank you for being part of it all and for bringing your spirit, joy, and heart.

We’re already looking forward to 2026. See you next year!

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Volunteers are invited to community cleanups at Tahoe beaches on Saturday, July 5

July 2, 2025 | Member Submitted

Originally Published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 07/02/2025, from IVCBA member: Keep Tahoe Blue

On the morning of Saturday, July 5, Tahoe-lovers are invited to clean up, refresh, and revitalize the Lake’s sandy shores and surrounding areas as part of the 12th annual “Keep Tahoe Red, White & Blue” Cleanup hosted by Keep Tahoe Blue.

Every July 5, passionate volunteers pour in from inside and outside the region to take part in Tahoe’s largest cleanup event. Many repeat volunteers even plan their annual vacations so they can join. Together, their efforts exemplify how to take care of Tahoe.

In addition, Keep Tahoe Blue is working together with beach managers, concessionaires, and businesses through its Tahoe Blue Beach program to “raise the bar for beach management.” Participating beaches are taking steps to make responsible, Lake-friendly recreation the easy and obvious choice for everyone who comes to the shore. Zephyr Cove Resort, Tahoe Beach Club, Meeks Bay Resort, and Camp Richardson Resort are all taking part, as is Kings Beach with funding from TOT-TBID Dollars at Work which funds programs that promote community vitality, environmental stewardship, and economic health in North Lake Tahoe.

READ MORE >

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The 2025 Incline Village Crystal Bay Local Heroes Celebration Is Under Way!

July 2, 2025 | Julie Malkin-Manning

Incline Village is proudly decked out in patriotic style, thanks to the many volunteers who have placed décor and planted flags throughout town. These are the signs that our beloved Local Heroes 4th of July Celebration has officially begun!

The festivities run from Wednesday, July 2 through Friday, July 4, with a full lineup of events brought to you by our incredible community partners. For complete details, visit IVCBA.org.

Reminder: Parade Day Is Thursday, July 3! The IVCBA Local Heroes Parade takes place Thursday, July 3 from 10 AM to approximately 11:30 AM. Expect traffic impacts from 8:30–11:30 AM. View the parade route map here.

Wednesday, July 2

  • ITF SummerFest kicks off at 4 PM on the campus of UNR Lake Tahoe. This family-friendly event is a fresh take on the classic Beer & Brats and supports the Incline Tahoe Foundation. This is a ticketed event.
  • Tahoe Philharmonic – Pops & Patriotic Songs. 7 PM at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. Tickets available.

Thursday, July 3

  • Flag Raising & Pancake Breakfast – 8 AM
    Hosted by North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District at the Tanager Station, featuring Incline High School’s ROTC.
  • Kids Bike Parade & Main Parade – 10 AM
    Parade route runs along Southwood Blvd to Incline Way and ends at Village Green.
    Parade announcers will be located at Bowl Incline and Village Green.
    Special highlights: 11-year-old Miya LeFrancois will perform the National Anthem!
  • Community Fair at Village Green
    Immediately following the parade, enjoy:
    • BBQ & beverages from Wild Bills BBQ
    • Baked goods and iced drinks from Happy Tiers Bakery & Café
    • Ice Cream Eating Contest by Susie Scoops at 1 PM
    • Bounce House
    • Washoe County Sheriff Meet & Greet, hosted by the IVCB Veterans Club
  • Veterans Reception – 6 PM
    Honor our local Veterans on the Village Green, sponsored by the IVCB Veterans Club and Cornerstone Church.
  • Flag Retirement Ceremony – Dusk
    A meaningful community tradition featuring the Sierra Highlanders Pipe Band.
    • Have a flag ready for retirement?
      • Collection boxes have been placed at the following locations for you to drop off your flag if it is time for its retirement and you are unable to attend the ceremony: 
        • IVGID Recreation Center
        • Incline Village Library
        • Email Lettie Miller for other drop-off arrangements. 
      • Please note: if there is something special about your flag, we will respectfully share it during the ceremony if you include a note with information when you drop it off. 

Friday, July 4

  • Pancake Breakfast at Village Green 8 AM – 12 PM
    Support the IVCB Veterans Club and fuel your Fourth of July morning.
  • Free BBQ at Incline Beach – 12:30 PM until gone
    The Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe is serving hot dogs and burgers (while supplies last).
    Note: A valid IVGID beach pass is required for entry.
  • Light Up the Lake – Fireworks at Dusk
    Presented by Incline Fireworks over beautiful Lake Tahoe.

Saturday, July 5 – Community Cleanup Day

While not officially part of the Local Heroes lineup, don’t miss this essential day of stewardship:

IVGID Community Clean-Up
After the festivities, our beaches need your help! Join the largest cleanup of the year to protect wildlife and preserve Lake Tahoe’s clarity.
Check in at Aspen Grove at 7 AM for assignments and supplies.

Please recreate responsibly and always stay informed of current fire conditions:

  • BBQs are allowed in Incline Village & Crystal Bay.
  • Recreational fires/fire pits are allowed with a permit.
  • No recreational fires are permitted at Short-Term Rentals.
  • All open flames are prohibited during Red Flag conditions.

Learn more at www.nltfpd.org.

Happy Independence Day, Incline Village & Crystal Bay!

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Incline Fireworks: A Celebration of Independence and Stewardship

July 2, 2025 | Member Submitted

Originally Published in LIVE.WORK.PLAY. Magazine (Summer Edition), Written by Kristie Wells

As the Fourth of July approaches, the heart of Incline Village beats a little faster in anticipation of one of the North Shore’s most cherished traditions: the fireworks display over Lake Tahoe. This year, the sky will sparkle even brighter as locals and visitors gather to watch the breathtaking explosion of color, honoring our nation’s independence. But beneath the pyrotechnics, there’s a quieter celebration happening, a commitment to preserving the very beauty that makes Lake Tahoe so special.

Lake Tahoe is renowned for its pristine waters, a natural treasure that holds both ecological and economic value for our region. Recognizing the need to balance celebration with conservation, the Incline Fireworks team is dedicated to ensuring that this year’s festivities have no lasting environmental impact. The all-volunteer board knows that the beauty of the lake is at the heart of this community, and they are committed to protecting its health for generations to come.

“We understand the importance of this event to our community,” says Sheila Leijon, Co-Chair of Incline Fireworks. “But we also know that Lake Tahoe is a treasure we must protect. That’s why every part of this event is designed with sustainability in mind.”

This year, Incline Fireworks has strengthened its commitment to sustainability by teaming up with North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection and organizations like Clean Up The Lake, Eco Clean Solutions, IVGID Parks & Recreation, and Waste Not. Together, they’ll ensure that debris is removed before, during, and after the show. From diver teams working beneath the surface to shoreline crews cleaning the coast, no part of the lake will be left untouched. Post-event audits will test water quality, further solidifying our responsibility to keep Lake Tahoe as pristine as it was before the first firework soared into the sky.

Beyond the on-the-ground efforts, the Incline Fireworks team is collaborating with Lantis Fireworks to explore innovative pyrotechnic technologies that deliver stunning displays while minimizing their environmental impact, ensuring the beauty of the lake’s ecosystem is preserved for years to come.

“Our goal isn’t just a one-night spectacular,” explains Leijon. “We’re working to build a sustainable program that can continue for years, supporting both our community and the environment.”

Every dollar raised for the fireworks show is reinvested into the event itself. As the celebration grows, the board is also focused on creating an endowment fund that will support future fireworks displays and ensure that this cherished tradition remains financially viable, without compromising the lake’s health.

This July 4th, as you watch the sky light up, remember that every dollar raised helps preserve this incredible tradition for generations to come. Your support not only ensures the fireworks display will continue but also safeguards the beauty of Lake Tahoe. Donate today and be part of a celebration that honors both our nation and our natural environment.

So, come to the beach, raise a glass, and celebrate our nation’s independence while honoring the beauty of the lake that unites us all. Happy Fourth of July from Incline Fireworks!

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Celebrate Safely This 4th of July

June 30, 2025 | Member Submitted

Submitted by NLTFPD, Tia Rancourt, 06/30/2025

As Independence Day approaches, the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District reminds residents and visitors that fireworks are illegal in the Tahoe Basin—on all public and private property, including U.S. Forest Service land. This includes all consumer fireworks, even those labeled “safe and sane,” brought in from outside the area.

Possession or use of fireworks is subject to civil and criminal penalties in Washoe County, Douglas County, and Carson City.

Leave fireworks to the professionals!  Catch one of these approved public displays on Friday, July 4:

  • Incline Village: 9:30 PM
  • Tahoe City: 9:30 PM
  • Truckee: 9:30 PM
  • South Lake Tahoe: 9:45 PM

Fire Season Restrictions – What You Need to Know:

  • Open burning has been prohibited since May 1.
  • Recreational wood or charcoal fires in screened, non-combustible containers require a permit and are not allowed at short-term rentals.
  • Gas, pellet, and charcoal grills are allowed—use safely and never leave them unattended.
  • No open flames on Red Flag Warning days.

Fireworks pose significant risks—fires, burns, injuries, and even death. Those responsible for fireworks use are liable for any resulting fires, injuries, or property damage. To dispose of fireworks safely and legally, you may turn them in to any local fire station at any time without penalty.

Beyond personal risk, illegal fireworks strain emergency resources and endanger our community. Help reduce preventable incidents—do not use consumer fireworks. Learn more about fireworks safety at nfpa.org.

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Celebrate Maestro James Rawie’s 20th  Annual Summer MusicFest with Tahoe Philharmonic Orchestra & Chorus in the Red, White & Blue Salute To America- with Broadway, Opera & Patriotic Songs 

June 29, 2025 | Member Submitted

Maestro James Rawie founded TOCCATA Tahoe Symphony twenty years ago.  Today Maestro Rawie will delight you with our Tahoe Red White & Blue series of Patriotic Songs, a bit of Broadway and a dash of opera all performed by Tahoe Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus.   We help you celebrate the Fourth of July with family and friends close to home! This annual Red White and Blue Salute to America concert that Maestro Rawie has conducted for 20 years is a delightful summer event that we perform in two venues at the Lake  and in Reno. Revel in full orchestra and chorus performances of patriotic favorites, join in a sing-along, and, if you’re the highest bidder, conduct the orchestra in The Stars and Stripes Forever!

Get the most bang for your buck with this concert that truly has something for everyone, and brings the music practically to your door.  Show your true patriotic colors with the Armed Forces Medley (audience members from all branches of the services are honored), orchestra-chorus versions of the Battle Hymn of the Republic and  God Bless America, an audience sing-along of America the Beautiful, and, of course, The Stars and Stripes Forever (will you be the conductor?).

Take a sip of classical music with Beethoven’s finale to his choral fantasy which preceeded the great 9th Symphony Ode to Joy, or tap your toes to the Great Western Medley, and hear our brass choir dazzle you with sounds from Dvorak’s 9thSymphony “Going Home”.   A solemn moment gives you time to reflect with our  perennial favorite, John Williams Hymn to the Fallen.

Anyone who enjoys beautiful singing will love the duets and solos by our gifted operatic soloists Anne Davidson, Debbie Sessions, Lorelei van Peborgh and Stuart Duke.   The tutti finale is a toast to wine and good living with Verdi’s Brindis from La Traviata. Raise  your own glasses  in joy and friendship !

Tickets are $30 for adults or $40 for preferred seating/$15 youth; youth under 23 are free in general seating: Premium “front and center” seats are $50 for adults, $25 for youth.  Limited seating in the Founder’s Circle is $100 and will have special treats.  Seniors enjoy a discount in all seating areas.  Lawn seating is $15, bring your chairs and picnic basket.  Please reserve your space online.   

WHERE and WHEN:

Wed…….. July 2…….. 7pm….. INCLINE:……………………………….. St. Francis Church  •  701 Mt. Rose Highway

Friday….. July 4…….. 7pm….. RENO:……………………… Bartley Ranch Amphitheater 6000 Bartley Ranch Road

Sunday…. July 6…….. 4pm …. TAHOE CITY:…………………. NorthLake Tahoe High School- 2945 Polaris Road  

These concerts are made possible in part by generous gifts from Heidimarie Rochlin,  Kevan and Susan Lesch, Dennis & Dianne DeCuir and 2 anonymous benefactors.

For additional information, please call 775-298-6989; 

e-mail TahoePhilharmonic@gmail.com;

or visit us at www.Tahoe-Philharmonic.org or https://www.facebook.com/tahoephilharmonic

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Celebrating the Heart of Our Community: The Local Heroes Parade (Thursday, July 3)

June 25, 2025 | Julie Malkin-Manning

This year’s Local Heroes Parade honors the people who make our community strong—veterans, firefighters, healthcare workers, educators, service workers, parents, and everyday heroes (yes, that includes YOU!).

Join us Thursday, July 3 at 10AM for this beloved Incline Village tradition. Suggested viewing areas include the intersection of Incline Way and Southwood Blvd and along Incline Way. Please plan ahead—there will be traffic impacts below Tahoe Blvd. from 8AM to 11:30AM. See parade route map.

The celebration begins with the always-popular Kids Bike Parade, organized with help from the Diamond Peak Ski Team. Once you see those young riders round the corner, you’ll know the main parade is just moments away!

To keep the energy high, keep an ear out for Jacked Up rocking the pre-parade tunes, and don’t miss the stirring sounds of the Sierra Highlander Pipe Band—yes, bagpipes included!

We’re also thrilled to welcome Miya LeFrancois, a talented 11-year-old performer with a passion for dance, music, and academics, who will perform the National Anthem. The Incline High School ROTC Color Guard will march as well.

And be on the lookout—the Ghost of Mark Twain himself (aka our very own McAvoy Layne) is rumored to be mingling with the crowd!

Make a day of it! Start your morning with the NLTFPD Pancake Breakfast and Flag Raising Ceremony, then head over to the Community Fair and BBQ on the Village Green immediately following the parade. Get the full July 2 – 4 Local Heroes Celebration schedule.

With more than 50 entries representing every corner of our community, this year’s parade is shaping up to be one of our biggest yet. Special thanks go out to Pam and Jeff Sheldon, the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, Washoe County, the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District, and all the volunteers who help decorate the route and bring the parade to life.

2025 Parade Entries

Gary Landgraf’s 1965 Amphibious Vehicle

Jim Perez and his 1965 Mustang

AAUW Tahoe Nevada Branch

Alfa Romeo Club –  1979 (Scully/Dennison)

Alfa Romeo Club – 1979 (Walsh)

Alfa Romeo Club – 1985

Alfa Romeo Club – E Buggy

Around Tahoe Tours

BIKE PARADE

Boys and Girls Club of North Tahoe

Bridget Giroux Design

Daisy Trails Forest preschool

Diamond Peak Ski Team

Garage Row Racing

Incline Village Community Hospital

Incline Education Fund

Incline High School ROTC

Incline Martial Arts

Incline Martial Arts

Incline Star Follies

Incline Village Republican Women

Inside Incline + Liz Olson

IVCBA

Jacked Up

Kuchulis and Simvoulakis Families

Lake Tahoe Markets – The Bounty of the Basin

Lee Family & Friends – Stars & Stripes Cruiser

Meals on Wheels Delivery Vehicle from Sierra Senior Services

Members of the Sierra Highlander Pipe Band (Bagpipers)

Miss Lake Tahoe (Chloe Menzies) with Pet Network Rescue Dogs

MIYA LEFRANCOIS – NATIONAL ANTHEM

Old Lake Tahoe Athletic Club

One Wheelers

Parade Grand Marshall Pete Todoroff

Pet Network Humane Society

Red Cross Emergency Response Vehicle

Reno Mustang Car Club – 1965 Convertible Raul Caceres

Reno Mustang Car Club – 1965 Coupe Rick Hartman

Reno Mustang Car Club – 1966 Convertible Gary Pavon

Reno Mustang Car Club – 1966 Convertible Larry Acker

Reno Mustang Car Club – 1966 Convertible Richard Cribben

Reno Mustang Car Club – 1968 Coupe Michael Herman

Reno Mustang Car Club – 1968 Coupe Ron Kalanick

Reno Mustang Car Club – 1999 Convertible Don Kiesel

Reno Mustang Car Club – 2006 Coupe James Vessells

Reno Mustang Car Club – 2012 Coupe Ricky Harold

Rotary Club of Tahoe-Incline

Rotary Duck Drop Float by Rotary Club of Incline Village – Noon

SQ Enterprises

Tahoe Workz, Inc.

Tahoe-Incline Rotary Club

The Village Christian Academy & Preschool

Village Pet Foundation

Washoe County Roads Department Incline Village

Washoe County Sheriff’s Office

*This list is not the parade order.

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What to Know About Road Closures for the Local Heroes Parade on July 3rd

June 23, 2025 | Julie Malkin-Manning

— It’s almost time for the beloved Local Heroes 4th of July Celebration, and the community parade on Thursday, July 3 will bring excitement, color—and temporary road closures—to central Incline Village.

If you plan to attend the event or move through town that morning, here’s what you need to know to navigate around parade-day closures and traffic impacts.

ROAD CLOSURES BEGIN AT 9 AM

Parade Route: The Local Heroes Parade begins at Tahoe Blvd and Southwood Blvd, travels along Incline Way, and finishes at the Village Green for a community fair and bbq, where the Kids Bike Parade concludes.

To ensure safety for participants and spectators, the following road closures will be in effect:

  • Village Blvd will be fully restricted to through traffic from 8:30 AM to 11:00 AM.
  • 9:00 AM – Southwood Blvd, Oriole Way, and segments of Incline Way will begin closing for car and float staging.
  • 9:45 AM – Additional sections of Incline Way near Village Blvd will be closed as the Kids Bike Parade and walker staging gets underway.
  • 10:00 AM – All remaining sections of the route will be closed. 

PLAN AHEAD FOR DELAYS

Residents and visitors should plan for delays or detours between 8:30 AM and 11:30 AM. Please allow extra travel time and avoid Village Blvd during that window if not attending the parade.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

  • Parade starts at 10:00 AM
  • Staging for floats and cars begins at 8AM along Southwood Blvd and Oriole Way
  • Walkers & Kids Parade meet for bike decorating near Incline Way & Village Blvd
  • The parade ends at the Village Green—a perfect spot for post-parade celebration and a bbq!

View the full Local Heroes Celebration July 2 – 4, 2025 schedule at ivcba.org.

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Local Heroes Community Fair – July 3

June 18, 2025 | Julie Malkin-Manning

Free BBQ • Games • Meet & Greet • Community Spirit at the Village Green

All about the Local Heroes Community Fair, a lively, family-friendly celebration happening on Thursday, July 3, from 11 AM to 3 PM at the Village Green (960 Lakeshore Blvd)—right after the beloved Local Heroes Parade!

This annual event, presented by IVGID Parks and Rec, is all about honoring the everyday heroes of North Lake Tahoe while bringing the community together for an afternoon of fun, food, and connection.

Event Highlights

  • Carnival Games & Bounce House
    Fun for all ages with help from our local youth and sports clubs.
  • Community Booths & Giveaways
    Explore booths hosted by nonprofits, local businesses, and service organizations sharing resources, goodies, and ways to get involved.
  • Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Meet & Greet
    Meet the team—including Captain Amelia Galicia and Lt. Joseph Colacurcio—and get hands-on with Sheriff vehicles.
  • Wild Bill’s BBQ presented by IVGID
    Enjoy classic BBQ fare, drinks, and spirits under the summer sun. (Click here for the menu)
  • Happy Tiers Bakery & Cafe
    Indulge in cinnamon rolls, cold brew, and sweet treats from a local favorite.
  • Susie Scoops Ice Cream Eating Contest @ 1 PM
    Back by popular demand! We all scream for ice cream! Don’t miss this hilarious (and delicious) tradition.

Want to Participate?

The Community Fair is free for both attendees and exhibitors. Organizations interested in hosting a booth must register by Sunday, June 23.  Tables and tents will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

Part of the Local Heroes 4th of July Celebration

The Community Fair is just one part of IVCBA’s Local Heroes 4th of July Celebration, a full weekend of patriotic pride and community spirit happening July 2–4.

Let’s come together to celebrate the people who make our mountain home so special. Bring your friends, bring your family—and don’t forget your appetite!

Learn more at www.ivcba.org

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Kids Bike Parade Returns to Lead the Local Heroes Parade on July 3!

June 18, 2025 | Julie Malkin-Manning

Presented and organized by the Diamond Peak Ski Team

The Local Heroes Kids Bike Parade is back and ready to roll on Thursday, July 3, leading off the annual Local Heroes Parade in Incline Village! This festive event invites kids of all ages to grab their bikes, scooters, wagons, or tricycles and ride at the front of the parade, celebrating community spirit and summer fun.

Deck Out Your Ride and Support Local Athletes!

Get ready to roll in style this Independence Day! The Diamond Peak Ski Team is selling festive Bike Decor Kits to help young riders shine in the Kids Bike Parade, on Thursday, July 3—and it’s all for a great cause.

Each kit is just $10, with red, white, and blue decorations perfect for celebrating Independence Day in true community spirit. You’ll find the kits available for purchase at the Bike Parade staging area on the morning of the event.

Proceeds support the Diamond Peak Ski Team, helping fund training, travel, and race opportunities for our local youth athletes.

Ride festive. Ride proud!

Event Details –

When: Thursday, July 3
Check-in and bike decorating begin at 9:15 AM 
The parade kicks off promptly at 10:00 AM 

Where to Meet:
Walk or ride bikes to the IVGID Administration Building (893 Southwood Blvd)
NO CARS/PARKING/DROP-OFFS will be allowed at the staging area. 

The parade ends at Village Green, where the celebration continues with games, activities, and a community BBQ at the Local Heroes Community Fair!

Registration is required. Register Here.

A huge thanks to the Diamond Peak Ski Team for sponsoring and organizing this fun, family-friendly tradition that brings our community together each Fourth of July weekend.

Questions: email julie@ivcba.org

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