Cloquet Kicks off Red, White and Blue Festivities

CLOQUET - Fourth of July celebrations kicked off in Cloquet with a Veterans Celebration Parade. Hundreds of locals lined Cloquet Avenue ringing in Fourth of July with an old tradition. "The weathers nice, everybody's happy,” parade watcher Kimberley Garrison said. “It's good to be alive in July celebrating the freedom of our country." At least 60 floats, businesses and organizations glided down the main drag."It's usually warm during July so this is a parade where everybody's enjoying the nice weather, we're all happy," said Garrison. Celebrations continued at the Veterans Park."We came back from the parade and just gonna have some fun today," said Kadenlind Vall. Food vendors and games were just a few things bringing in the crowds."I've been having fun just hanging out talking, it's been a blast," said Tony Gohnson. For a little more relaxation and retail therapy Cloquet also kicked off its special Fourth of July Farmers Market."I just think that they like the community to get together and just get to know each other," Gilby’s Acre Owner Carolyn Gilbertson said. Locals took home baked goods from Gilby’s Acre, made their rounds to honey, jewelry and knick knack vendors. "I see a lot of people I haven't seen all year,” said Gilbertson. “It's just nice a nice little social get together." Other Cloquet Independence Day activities included live entertainment, a car and firework show.