The quest for funding the Kingston Fourth of July celebration is getting tougher according to Pete DeBoer who chairs the Fourth of July Celebration committee. “Each year it requires almost $38,000 to cover the cost of all the events and logistics for the holiday.”

Although past contributions are appreciated, he said, this year the committee began reaching out earlier to allow major supporters more time for budgeting their donations. “Major sponsors are a significant factor in allowing us to hold the event over the past several years,” DeBoer said. “We work with them as much as we can so they can be acknowledged for their contributions and community spirit.”

The celebration, he noted, requires more advance planning each year, but it is the cornerstone of the town’s summer season. “From a historical standpoint, Kingston’s Fourth boasts the longest running parade of any town west of the Mississippi and attracts increased numbers of visitors each year.”

Dale Rude, treasurer for the committee, expressed concern that sponsorships may be delayed. “Each year there is a deposit to pay for the fireworks to ensure they will be available on the Fourth. It may be a close thing this year.”

The main events of the celebration include the fireworks display as the event’s finale, but the town parade has become a mainstay event. Tiny Town, a multiple day venue that began for children, has expanded to include the entire family with its live music, art displays and other activities at Kola Kole park. There is also musical entertainment at Mike Wallace Park which will have the benefit this year of a new multiple use recreation facility for the main stage.

“Many other community groups add their own parts to the party,” DeBoer said. “For a day or two, Kingston is the place to be for any Independence Day celebration.”

To download information on sponsoring the Kingston Fourth of July, you can get a sponsorship packet here.