July 4th falling on a Tuesday has us a bit discombobulated this year. What day(s) should I take off work? Which cities are hosting fireworks? What's there to do until dusk?
You might be surprised to find out just how much fun you can have for little or no money on Independence Day. Read on:
A nickel, a brew
Inbound Brew Co. is offering a free beer (OK, a wooden nickel you can exchange for a free beer) with your first purchase — if you sport red, white and blue at the Minneapolis brewery on the 4th. Indeed said it'll throw in an extra wooden nickel if you have patriotic underwear on. (Wouldn't want to be the one to check.) There'll also be a food truck serving tacos from noon to 8 p.m. and live music from 2 to 5 p.m. The fun goes from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. at Inboundbrew.co, 701 N. 5th St.
Made in the parade
Say what you want about Edina, but its July 4th parade is a don't-miss for kids and adults alike. Expect the usual parade lineup (local first responders, politicians, royalty and bands) with lots of free goodies. The parade starts at 10 a.m. at Edina City Hall, heads east on 50th Street and ends at Halifax Avenue. Get there early if you want a good view of the proceedings. edinaparade.org, 4801 W. 50th St., Edina.
An all-American meal
If you're in the mood for a classic Independence Day meal but don't want to cook, the American Legion 1176 in Apple Valley is doing BBQ. For $13 a plate, you get chicken, baked beans, coleslaw and a dinner roll. It doesn't get any more American than that. 11 a.m. 14521 Granada Drive, Apple Valley.
