CLARK FORK — Celebrating America the “old-fashioned way” on its 250th birthday just makes sense, especially for the community of Clark Fork.  

Thousands of residents are expected to roam the city of Clark Fork, participating in a variety of festive contests, activities, and more to honor the Fourth of July. 

At 7 a.m., the 14th annual Freedom Fun Run 5K kicks off the day. Sponsored by the Filling Station Youth Center, proceeds from the race will help fund scholarships for Clark Fork seniors, in addition to helping fund the Filling Station Youth Center, a Christian non-profit youth center in Clark Fork. 

Ticket prices for the race range depend on age — $25 for adults, $15 for students and $15 for family members running with a student. 

Following the race at 8:30 a.m., the local VFW will raise the American flag at Clark Fork Jr./Sr. High School before the parade commences at 9:30 a.m. All are welcome to participate in the parade for free, including children, adults, tractors, four-wheelers, motorcycles, cars, horses and fire trucks.  

This year’s parade will honor America’s 250th birthday as the parade theme.  

From there, family foot races will occur in the schoolyard at 10:15 a.m., with a plethora of food, vendors and activities available to the community. Attendees will also have the chance to purchase raffle tickets for the Clark Fork Rod and Gun Club raffle drawing, if they haven’t already purchased tickets at the Clark Fork Chevron before the Fourth.  

At noon, all activities for the remainder of the day will proceed at Memorial Field, where attendees can enjoy a refreshing beverage with hot dogs and chips.   

An airplane drop starting at 1 p.m. will kick off events again, with free coupons and dollar bills falling from the plane towards eager citizens. The famous turtle races and watermelon eating contest will follow the plane drop, along with a handful of other kiddie activities.    

For adults who want to embrace their inner lumberjack, the annual log sawing competition will transpire at 3 p.m. 

The log sawing competition includes big saws, crosscuts, and a women’s open class chainsaw division. Competition divisions are Jack and Jill, Jill and Jill, and Jack and Jack.   

Officials of the event indicate that the event may include the potential opportunity for pole climbing and axe throwing, though it is not certain yet.  

Once competitions conclude at approximately 4 p.m., the CFRGC raffle will begin, featuring items like a KitchenAid mixer, a kayak, a Savage Axis .243 rifle, a Black Diamond Wood Splitter and other noteworthy items. Silent auction winners will also be announced at this time.  

At dusk, fireworks will conclude the day of celebration. 

    Bonner County Sheriff Daryl Wheeler rides a four-wheeler at a past Fourth of July parade in Clark Fork.