Daughters of the American Revolution's John Sutter Chapter present a float to honor military veterans. 

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Even without a fireworks display, Carmichael patriotism will fire up for July 4. 

Carmichael Recreation and Park District this year cancelled the Red White and Blue fireworks celebration to allow playing field reconstruction at La Sierra Community Center. Enabled by Measure G funding, the project includes new turf and pathways.

Civic fireworks will return to the site next year.

Those who enjoy celebrating with a bang might cross the river to join a two-day bash hosted by the City of Rancho Cordova. Partying includes a parade, carnival rides, bands and fireworks on July 3 and 4. Admission to the Hagan Park event is $10 at the gate; parking is $10 per car.

Alternately, Crossroads Church promises ‘the biggest little fireworks show in Carmichael’ on Wednesday, July 2. Located at 7100 Fair Oaks Blvd., the church offers free bounce houses, train rides and refreshments.

“We celebrate our freedom as a nation and our freedom to worship,” said Pastor Matt Potratz. “We’ve also invited first responders, so we can appreciate those who protect our freedoms.”

Church festivities will begin at 7 p.m. July 2 and rockets will blast off at 9 p.m. Anyone can attend.

Two days later, dawn’s early light will illuminate an army of floats, cars and patriots assembling at the corner of Palm Drive and Fair Oaks Boulevard. Flying a “Celebrating American Patriotism” banner, the Carmichael Elks parade hits the street at 10:30 a.m. July 4. American River College football coach Jon Osterhout is parade grand marshal. 

“It’s an honor to represent Carmichael, the Elks and the fine institution of American River College,” said Osterhout. “The college understands the connection between the community and the Elks; they’ve been tremendous supporters of student athletic success for many years.”

Osterhout (48) was a 1990s California State University, Sacramento offensive lineman and has coached the American River College highly-ranked Beavers team since 2010. 

“Jon’s been shaping positive spirit among athletes for many years,” said parade organizer Jim Warrick. “His dedication to young people makes him a great American.”

Sons of the American Revolution members will march in Carmichael’s 100-unit parade on July 4.

Sacramento Sheriff’s Posse riders are one of two equestrian units on parade. The posse and its golden palominos will lead the Carmichael procession. Behind grand marshal Osterhout, more than 100 units will follow the whoop of fire trucks from Marconi to Cypress Avenue. Go-Karts, Scouts, dancers, classic cars, floats, bicycles, Keystone Kops, equestrians, politicians and clowns annually strut patriotic stuff. The El Camino High School band provides music. Del Campo High School fields a mighty vanguard of athletes and cheerleaders. 

Fair Oaks Boulevard closes from 10 a.m. to noon July 4 for the cavalcade. Thousands of spectators applaud from sidewalks; crowds are thickest beneath shade trees at Carmichael Park. In the park clubhouse, Carmichael Kiwanis Club volunteers annually fortify patriots with $5 pancake breakfasts.

All roads lead to Carmichael Elks Lodge. Here, dancing, barbecue lunches and swimming are offered. The Elks Lodge is located at 5631 Cypress Ave.

Parade sponsors include Kovar’s Karate, All Stage Canine, Carmichael Chamber of Commerce, Almond Orchard Dental, Kiwanis Club, Carmichael Elks Lodge, Victory Christian School, Sons of the American Revolution, St John the Evangelist School, Carmichael Water District, Realtor Ron Greenwood, Blain Stumpf Fencing, Daughters of the American Revolution, the Carmichael Times, Carmichael Improvement District, Nick Bloise, John's Liquor and I Love Pie.