You can have your Christmases and Thanksgivings and all those other high-pressure holidays.
But when it comes to our favorite annual celebration, Jack takes the Fourth of July without hesitation.
Think about it: There’s no requirement for gift-giving, the weather is usually nice, you can spend it with whoever you want, and it’s a holiday about patriotism. Oh yeah, and there’s the whole fireworks thing.
This year, Jack’s doubling down on his excitement because after a two-year hiatus the largest fireworks display on this side of the state is returning. We’re talking about the big explosions-filled, Americana music fest that goes down in the parking lot of Southgate Mall.
According to a mall’s Facebook post, the fireworks event is happening again this year after taking the last two years off. Not many details have been unveiled about “4th Fest” other than that it’s happening from 7-11 pm at the mall on Wednesday, July 4th. We assume more details will be coming soon.
Truth be told, despite being a (mostly) lifelong Missoula resident, we’ve only actually partaken in the festivities at the mall one time. That’s because the best thing about the show – and about living in the Missoula Valley – is that you can pretty much enjoy it from anywhere. Pick a mountain, a hill, a rooftop, bring a blanket and your own playlist and enjoy the show.
Because this is America, and while Jack’s always looking for a great excuse to celebrate there really is no better reason than love of country. And pretty explosions in the sky.
-Zeke Campfield