This Secret 4th of July Parade is a Central Minnesota Tradition

The 4th of July is almost here. Time for fireworks, food on the grill, and celebrating all things America. A tradition my own family has is attending the Pillsbury Parade. It happens every year on the 4th on 331st Ave in Pillsbury, a small 'town' just outside of Swanville in Todd County.

This road around the public beach and boat access on Pillsbury Lake is wall to wall people. Families set up lawn chairs and save spots early in the morning, ready to watch this parade go by.

What makes it so special is that anyone and anything can be in it. There's no entry fee or requirement to be in the parade. If you want to be involved, you just show up. Hay racks full of people handing out beer, at one point there was a motor home painted like the General Lee, golf carts, old cars, this parade is an absolute free-for-all.

If you are looking for a different kind of parade this 4th of July, I suggest the Pillsbury Parade. The amount of fun you can have in that small lake community will have you coming back year after year. The start time is roughly 2 PM, but I suggest getting there early to park and find a spot.

No word has been made yet on what the parade situation is like for 2020 due to COVID-19, but if it is changed in any way we will be sure to update you here.