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Community Corner

4th of July Weekend Planner

Here's what's happening in and around Carmichael this weekend.

You can already hear the sounds of celebrating as another three-day weekend approaches and this one is extra-special, what with it being in honor of Independence Day. 

Light up your life with both fireworks and one or more of these excursions; good times await! 

The Fourth boasts an assortment of to-do's, including complimentary admission to our own California State Military Museum in Sacramento and a laundry list of choices at La Sierra Community Center. 

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Star-spangled dancing, a pancake breakfast and the Carmichael Elks 4th of July Parade, now in its 53rd year, are also clamoring for your attendance, so make like a bottle rocket and blast off!  

1.

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Where/When: , Friday 7 to 9 p.m.

Why Go: Got a pair of happy feet? Then come on out and get the Fourth of July weekend started early. Move to the Big Band music of the Rotary Rooters Band (not to be confused with Roto-Rooter, the sewer service company:) tonight and dance like nobody's watching! Get the

Pricing: $5 per person.

2.

Where/When: , Monday 7 to 11 a.m.

Why Go: Get the family ready and head on over to Carmichael Park for a yummy maple syrup-topped pancake feast, which also includes juice, coffee, fruit and sausages. Fill 'er up regular on things breakfast-y before you continue your Independence Day journey to watch the 4th of July Parade.

Pricing: $5 adults/$3 kids 12 and younger.

3. Independence Day Event

Where/When: California State Military Museum, 1119 Second Street, Sacramento, Monday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Why Go: Find out all about California's military history on the most patriotic day for those of us in the USA. View flags, weapons and exhibits, including memorabilia from the Persian Gulf War, California Cavalry, Spanish and Mexican California and much more—a pitstop at the Major General Walter Story Memorial Library and Research Center on the way out is a must.

Pricing: Free.

4. 

Where/When: Carmichael Elks Lodge, Monday 10:30 a.m.

Why Go: Parade lovers are invited to watch this festive event, filled with floats, military units, marching bands, equestrian entries, antique cars and ring in Independence Day with a smile.  The route goes on Fair Oaks Blvd. from Marconi to Cypress and Manzanita avenues and water will be provided to both participants and parade attendees by local businesses.

Pricing: Free.

5.

Where/When: , Monday 7 p.m.

Why Go: Don your American flag t-shirt and join your neighbors to watch colorful fireworks, hear live music and chow down on food and beverages at this activity-packed gathering. Send the youngsters off to try out the Kid Zone inflatables and see puppet shows, and much more.

Pricing: $5 general admission.

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