Lighting up the holiday

Watch the sky light up this July 4 at the annual Devils Tower celebration of Independence Day, a full day of activities that raises money for local EMS and firefighters, or head over to the annual fireworks exhibition at Keyhole State Park on July 2, a fundraiser hosted by the Pine Haven Volunteer Fire Department.

At the lake, free park admittance begins at 8 p.m. and the fireworks begin as dark falls. The event draws a big crowd and the park is expected to be at capacity, so attendees are advised to arrive early to get a good spot.

Donations received help cover the costs of the fireworks and also equip the fire department's personnel and maintain the fire trucks.

This year, special guest Bruce Burns will be designing the display and hosting alongside the Hulett Volunteer Fire Department. The Burns firework show in Sheridan has been one of Wyoming's most famous July 4 events for 35 years but, due to a change in ownership at the site, will be moving all the way to Devils Tower.

The fireworks, of course, won't begin until dark, but there's reason to head out much earlier in the day to enjoy some holiday fun. The event begins at noon, and will include bounce houses to keep the little ones entertained.

Bracketing will also begin at this time for the All-American Cornhole Tournament, with cash and prizes to win. Play will begin at 1 p.m.

It may be a little late to start preparing your entry for the contest that will begin the evening with an all-American bang, but if you know someone with a fantastic hairdo, why not invite them to enter into the All-American Mullet Championship at 5 p.m.

At the same time, live music from Dakota Country will be entertaining the crows from the big deck. Food and drink will be available on site.