When it comes to Fourth of July events, there is something for everyone. Whether you want to gaze at the dazzling fireworks at Navy Pier, watch the Budweiser Clydesdales at Wrigley Field, or escape the city altogether.
If you’re looking for a quaint town with charming main street shops and celebrations that transport you back in time: consider Racine, Wisconsin.
Racine is hosting the Midwest’s longest Fourth of July parade this Saturday
Racine County is home to the oldest 4th of July parade in Wisconsin, and in fact, the entire Midwest—and it remains a cherished tradition that spans generations
The 4th Fest of Greater Racine originated as the Goodwill Committee, which organized a celebration of America’s independence. It evolved into Goodwill Inc., adopted the name 4th Fest in the 1970s, and became the 4th Fest of Greater Racine in the 1990s.
Companies create spectacular floats, marching bands from across the country perform, and veterans are honored with the only living memorial floats in Wisconsin.
Main Street will shut down this Saturday for its 90th annual 4th Fest parade.
Organizers of Racine’s 4th Fest have announced the parade lineup for 2026, which will feature over 130 entries. Participants include local civic leaders, public safety agencies, school groups, veterans organizations, nonprofits, and area businesses.
The parade will kick off with the 4th Fest Color Guard and showcase civic representatives, including the mayor of Racine and several City Council members, as well as elected officials from Racine County and the state.
The parade route starts at Goold Street and proceeds south along Main Street for a distance of 2.6 miles.
It will begin at 9 a.m., and attendance is expected to exceed previous years. 4th Fest proudly hosts the only living memorial honoring those who served in three wars: The Boys of ’76 – American Legion Post 310, Agerholm-Gross Day, #346 – Iwo Jima, and Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 767. These floats are always a major crowd-pleaser at 4th Fest each year.
