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North Iowa offers many summer activities

Well, we have all made it to the end of the academic school year. Boredom may set in sooner than you had hoped for once school has let out for the summer. Take some time to check out these area events.

The 75th annual North Iowa Band Festival is May 23-25 with the famous parade starting at 10 a.m. and many other events all weekend in East Park.

Then in a little over a month, 4th of July celebrations will be taking place around the area.

Mason City puts on a good fireworks display on July 3rd. July 4th has many festivities, but I would recommend heading over to Clear Lake for the annual parade starting at 10 a.m. with the fireworks that evening at 10 p.m.

I know there are many other towns that put on fireworks displays, but Clear Lake’s fireworks are amazing.

The Bicycle, Blues, and BBQ event is also held in Clear Lake and will be July 12-14.

This event is for people who like to cycle, listen to blues music and enjoy barbequed food.

If you want to stay in town, Mason City offers farmers markets, craft shows and live bands in Central Park throughout the summer.

Along with the I-35 speedway, the 457 historic locomotive in East Park, the Family Aquatic Center or camping at McNider Campgrounds there is always something to do in Mason City.

If you are up for a little road trip, head over to Charles City to the White Water at Riverfront Park where you can tube, raft, kayak or watch your crazy friends go down this man made white water course.

There is always something going in North Iowa for college students and families. Thank you for reading my column all year. I wish everyone the best of luck in the future.