The Fourth of July was festive in Jonathan!

Hundreds of kids and their parents celebrated America’s birthday this past July 4th in Jonathan – and what a fun time they had!

The annual “Fun Run” started at 8:30am and consisted of a 5K (3.1 mile) course set up through the trails of Jonathan. Free T-shirts were given to all 41 participants.

For the 35th consecutive year Jonathan held its famous “Kiddie Parade” - a two blocks long family friendly event which started at the Jonathan General Store on Village Road, worked its way north to Geske Road, and then west to the Karen House on Bavaria Road. The parade featured a fire truck and police squad car escort, along with lots of colorful and creative costumes and decorations which adorned kids, bikes, trikes, wagons and pets.

After the parade, the Karen House was the site of a wide variety of fun activities including a petting zoo, pony rides, a giant slide, moon walk (bouncy house), magician, balloon artist, face painting, temporary tattoos, and a watermelon eating contest. Refreshments (popcorn, ice cream, and orange drink) were provided – free of charge to the kids!

Event Coordinator (and Jonathan Board member) Linda Frey was in charge, and was able to discharge her important duties with effectiveness and a smile! “We had so many great volunteers helping us out,” said Linda. “I really want to thank them all for a job very well done on behalf of their Jonathan neighbors. Everyone had so much fun!”

Assisting Linda were Maria Awes, Sandi Rossol, Mary Siegfried, Marie Esch, Dick Hagen, Bruce Koprucki, Tom & Jeri Glander, Desmond & Kristin Alcindor, Nate Bostrom, and Marsh, Joanna, & Lauren Halberg.

“I also have to thank the wonderful folks from the Chaska Fire department, the Chaska Police, and the Veterans Color Guard,” added Linda. “They all made such important contributions to our Fourth of July celebration in Jonathan!”