Columbus 4th of July Celebration 2026 by MadisonMediaPartners

Welcome Happy 250th Birthday, America!

My name is Tory Weidemann, and I am the president of the Columbus 4th of July Organization. First and foremost, I would like to thank all our current volunteers. We spend a great deal of time throughout the year getting things organized and moving in the direction we want. I also want to thank all of our past volunteers for helping keep this celebration going so that we can continue to celebrate as a country, right here in our city.

This marks the start of my 22nd year with the organization. I began as a committee member, later served as entertainment chairperson, and then vice president. Many people do not realize just how much planning goes into this celebration. We begin planning in August for the following year. Everything we do is based on volunteer efforts. We have a great, energetic group of people on the committee, but we are always looking for more volunteers and fresh ideas.

The Columbus 4th of July Organization, Inc. was formed as a nonprofit group in 1972 for the sole purpose of organizing this annual celebration in Columbus. The event is entirely organized and run by volunteers. It continues to grow, with younger volunteers stepping up and helping ensure this remains a special event for years to come. A portion of the profits from the celebration goes back into the community for park and city improvements.

The fun begins Tuesday, June 30, with Family Night at the pavilion. Bring the kids out for face painting, character meet-and-greets, food, ice cream and more, then stick around for a Columbus Crawdads home talent baseball game against Poynette at 7:00 p.m. at the ball diamond.

Mr. Ed’s Magical Midway Carnival opens Wednesday, July 1, and you’ll find live music in the park throughout the five-day celebration. On Friday, July 3, grab a partner and join our bags tournament at the baseball diamond starting at 1 p.m.—you can sign up on our website.

Saturday, July 4, is packed with all your favorites. The annual parade kicks off at noon and goes through the downtown, followed by an afternoon and evening of carnival rides, live music, and plenty of food and fun—ending with a can’t-miss fireworks show at dusk. (If the weather doesn’t cooperate, fireworks will move to July 5.)

We wrap things up on Sunday, July 5, at the pavilion with a great afternoon of music featuring country artist Jesse Walker, followed by the David Austin Polka Band. It’s a fun-filled lineup for all ages—we hope to see you there!

Please respect everyone’s choices and help us make this a great and enjoyable Fourth of July celebration as we honor America’s independence and 250th birthday. I also urge families watching the parade to keep a close eye on children, so they do not run into the street for candy. With so much happening, safety is everyone’s responsibility.

On a more personal note, we had asked Jeff Krakow to serve as this year’s parade marshal in recognition of his dedication to both his community and his country. I personally met with Jeff and his wife, Melody, at their home to extend the invitation, which he accepted with great humility and appreciation. Sadly, Jeff passed away on November 26, 2025. My deepest sympathies goes out to his family and friends. Rest in peace, Jeff, and thank you for your service.

Columbus

CELEBRATION EVENT SCHEDULE

June 30 - July 5

FIREMAN’S PARK

1049 Park Ave., Columbus, WI

Tuesday, June 30

FAMILY FUN NIGHT

Thank You

2026 COLUMBUS 4th of July CELEBRATION 7

Thank you to this year’s sponsors and donors. We are grateful for your support to the annual Columbus July 4th Celebration. Our goal each year is to bring quality family entertainment to our guests.

Thanks for letting us continue to celebrate!

Columbus 4th of July Parade Marshal Gary Errthum

A wintry mix blows across the front door, with a 12-year-old GMC truck parked not more than 20 paces away on a brisk Saturday morning. Even well into his semi-retirement at 81, Gary Errthum is never far away from the business he started over 56 years ago. As the Parade Marshal for this year’s 4th of July celebration, the United States semi-quincentennial, Gary Errthum is among the millions who campaign for that American dream of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Born on a small farm in Bloomington Wisconsin in 1945, young Gary had a mind for the awe-inspiring innovations

of a rapidly industrializing country. It is no fabrication to say that EK Machine might not exist as it does today, if it were not for a U.S. minted quarter getting stamped into an ashtray at the Museum of Science and Industry. That discovery pushed Gary from a town of 695, to the Allied Institute of Technology in downtown Chicago, which he graduated from in 1965.

Gary’s life took him home, back to Wisconsin in 1966, working an apprenticeship at Madison’s Gisholt Machine, and eventually Giddings & Lewis, as an on-road maintenance operator. However, as 6-month stretches began to weigh on his goals to start a family, and his young marriage in 1970, opportunity came to Gary in the form of an article about Columbus concerning a small machine shop, and a man named Charlie Yelk. After visiting the shop, Gary Errthum and his partner Mr. Knaub, started E.K. Machine with 3,600 sq ft at 130 Farnham street in November of 1970.

From 3,600 sq ft in 1970, to 600,000 sq ft in 2026, Gary had planted his American Dream in Columbus and Fall River, but it has been more than a dream that has been started here. Gary started the Fall River Chamber in 2001, eventually establishing the Savannah Oaks community center from a Stokely

Van-Camp canning testing site in 2003. Errthum speaks proudly of that community center, while his company donates over six-figures a year to local organizations like P.A.V.E (Protect, Advocate, Validate, Educate), local food banks, and many local school districts. It’s the intimacy of building community relationships that sets sparks in his wizened eyes.

There’s a saying that it “takes all stripes to make a country”, and as American celebrates 250 years of independence, there is a wealth of wisdom to learn from dreamers like Gary Errthum who’ve lived through 10 presidents and nine recessions. “Take each day with what comes of it… money’s important, but in life you’ll find out it’s nothing more than another tool, more money you got sometimes the worst you get. Health and freedom is worth millions, and you can’t buy it. I’m going to be 81 and everyone says: well, how much do you need Gary? I say, I don’t need anything, it’s all about the community and giving back, along with taking care of the EK Team.

Gary Errthum looks forward to the people he meets during the Columbus 4th of July Celebration and is honored to be the Parade Marshall for the semi-quincentennial celebration of the United States of America.

PARADE RULES

✔ WATER FUN: Light, good natured water play is welcome! Water may be gently sprayed or thrown from your entry within reason. To keep the parade safe and tidy, please avoid using automatic hoses/guns, water balloons, or anything that creates litter. Please be considerate of spectators and fellow parade entries.

✔ CANDY: Candy may not be thrown from a vehicle. When handing out candy, please aim for the curb to avoid anyone running into the street.

✔ ALCOHOL: For everyone’s safety, alcohol may NOT be consumed in any vehicle or on any float by any parade participant.

✔ VEHICLES & DRIVERS: All vehicles must be insured, and all drivers must hold a valid driver’s license.

✔ ARRIVAL TIME: Please arrive by 10:30am to ensure a prompt 12pm start time. Late arrivals may be placed at the end of the parade lineup, forfeiting the original placement. Parade Staff will ask entries to tighten spacing immediately before -- thank you for working with them!

✔ VEHICLE TYPES: To maintain safety, semi tractor trailers and large farm equipment are not permitted unless they are transporting a musical or entertainment entry. Please contact us in advance for any special considerations at columbus4thofjuly@gmail.com.

✔ LINEUP UPDATES: We may make occasional last minute adjustments to the parade order. Please check the email used for registration frequently during the week of the event for updates.

✔ DECORATIONS: Help us celebrate in style! Except for performing groups, all entries are required to be decorated patriotically. Flags, bunting, and similar elements are encouraged. Remember our theme of “Celebrate America” and decorate accordingly. All entries will be automatically entered into our Parade Float Contest!

Parade Route

Parade Line-up starts at Columbus Countryside Vet Clinic on Temkin Road and will head South on Ludington St., following through downtown Columbus, past Fireman’s Park, ending at the corner of Tower Dr. & Park Ave.

We thank you for your cooperation and hope you enjoy this year’s celebration!

✔ MUSIC: Please keep your music upbeat and family friendly. Music must be free of vulgar or offensive language, as determined by the Columbus 4th of July Organization.

✔ PERFORMANCE PAYMENTS: Performance entry payments will be distributed before the parade begins.

✔ REGISTRATION CONFIRMATION: Registration confirmations, lineup numbers, and lineup instructions will be emailed the week of July 4th. Entries must be registered by June 15, 2026. Late entries may be placed at the end of the parade or may not be able to participate depending on space.

✔ LATE/UNREGISTERED ENTRIES: Late or unregistered entries may not be accepted. These entries will be parked in a designated waiting area. Registration and rule adherence is required.

✔ ENTRY FEES:Commercial entries that are not sponsors or advertisers will have a $75 entry fee prior to the event. Please send payments to: Columbus Fourth of July Organization, Inc.

Parade Entry Payment

P.O. Box 283, Columbus, WI 53925

★ Have Fun!!!

Hwy.16/60

A - Columbus Countryside Vet Clinic

B - Meister Park

C - Amtrak Station

D - Columbus City Hall Columbus Senior Center

E - WBEV Live Radio Broadcast (Corner of Prairie & Ludington)

F - Fireman’s Park

G - Parade Ends

H - Hospital

I - Police Station

* - Public Parking

✔ ANIMAL ENTRIES: Groups with animals must provide their own clean up crew to promptly manage waste.

✔ ARRIVAL INSTRUCTIONS: Please bring your line-up number. Enter the parade area at Thoma Rd (near Countryside Vet Clinic), check in with the attendant, then proceed to your assigned position. Parade spots are marked on the left side; please park/line up on the right side. Drive slowly & carefully—this area gets very busy—and be mindful not to block driveways.

✔ FLAGS/DECOR: Approved flags include the current United States flag and official Active Military Flags. Variations of the U.S. flag or political/candidate flags are not permitted. Any disallowed flags may not be part of any participant costumes and/or accessories. If your group would like to include a specialty ag, please contact us in advance for special considerations at columbus4thofjuly@gmail.com.

✔ RULE COMPLIANCE: The Columbus 4th of July Organization may ask an entry to stop participating if rules are not followed. We operate independently from the City of Columbus and reserve the right to make these decisions, and the Columbus Police Department will help enforce if necessary.

✔ RESPECT FOR COMMUNITY: Please follow all Columbus City laws and help us maintain a respectful, welcoming environment for our community and all participants.

Columbus 4th of July Celebration Parade Entry Form 2026 “Celebrate America”

Come join in the fun! Except for performing units all entries should be decorated to celebrate the 4th of July. All entries will be reviewed by the committee, and inappropriate entries will not be allowed.

Name of Entry: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Type of entry (i.e. Band, Float, Tractor, etc.…)

(Approximate Length) ________________ Feet

Non-Pro t: _____ Performance: _____ If Performance, Music? Yes _____ No _____

Registration Deadline: June 15, 2026

Fee requested (performing units only) $ _____________ Payable to whom ______________________________________________________________

Commercial: ____ If Commercial, $75 Fee enclosed _____ Or Advertisement Placed* _____

(*Advertisement listed under )

Name of Contact Person ________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Address

Telephone__________________________________________ E-mail

Please provide description of your entry and any information about your entry/organization for use in the radio broadcast of the parade.

Please either bring your con rmation number or know your con rmation number! **There will be no Tractor-Trailers allowed in parade, unless providing transportation for entrants/music**

By signing this form, I/we agree to abide by the aforementioned conditions of participation in the Columbus 4th of July Parade; including, but not limited to: each driver/vehicle shall be licensed and fully-insured. I have read and agree to the rules of the Columbus 4th of July parade.

Signature Date________________________

A fee of $75.00 will be charged for all commercial entries who are not already a sponsor of the celebration. Fee must be paid at time of registration to: Columbus 4th of July Org. Registration form should be mailed to the below listed address. To email an entry, please send all requested information to: ColumbusWIParade@gmail.com. Con rmation of your registration will be sent by mail or e-mail. Parade line-up directions and position number will be sent one week prior to the parade.

Columbus 4th of July Organization, Inc.

Parade Entry PO Box 283 Columbus, WI 53925

DIRECT ANY QUESTIONS TO: Pat Hoff 920-210-8507 or email: ColumbusWIParade@gmail.com

THE FIRECRACKER 5

Race Date: July 4th , 2026

5K Run & Walk Begins at 8:30am

The 5K Run & Walk course is residential with few hills. Beginning and ending at the Columbus Area Aquatic Center (250 Folsom Street) in Fireman’s Park. Check in for the event will begin at 7:30am.

5K Run & Walk- Awards will be given for overall finishers (Male & Female) and age group awards.

Enroll into 5K event on/before June 17th:

Participate in 5K Run & Walk and receive a Firecracker 5 T-Shirt for $30 00

Enroll into 5K event on/after June 18th:

Participate in 5K Run & Walk and receive a Firecracker 5 T-Shirt for $40.00.

*This year’s 5K course will have a fork in the route for those wishing to participate, but only run or walk 2 miles.

Chi ldren’s Sparkler Sprint at 9:30am

The Children’s Sparkler Sprint will be a 100 yard sprint open to children 12 & under Sprint will begin and end near the Columbus Area Aquatic Center (250 Folsom Street) in Fireman’s Park. Check in for the event will begin at 9:00 AM.

Enroll into Sparkler Sprint event BEFORE June 26th: Participate in Sparkler Sprint and receive a 4th of July Swag Bag.

Enroll at MyRec

columbuswi.myrec.com/info/default.aspx

Event Presented by Columbus Recreation

Questions: 920-623-5936

❏ CREATIVITY - Ideas Fit the Group and the Theme

❏ THEME - “Celebrate America”

❏ ATTITUDE - Waving, Smiling, Glad to be Participating

❏ USE OF SPACE - Cleanliness, Limited Negative Space, Uniformity

❏ USE OF SOUND - Clear, Respectful Volume, Appropriate Language, Fits Theme or Group’s Identity

❏ HANDOUTS - Appropriate to Float, Handed Out/No Toss, Cheerful Demeanor

❏ U.S. FLAG PRESENT - Red and White Stripes, 50 Stars

Spor ting Events on H.D. 3 Pool Tables Dar ts & Golf Machines ATM • 10 TVs Lunch Specials ser ved 11am – 3pm Friday Fish Fr y 11am - 9pm Pizza • Sandwiches • Burgers • Chicken Wings • Appetizers

For 250 years, the ideals of independence, perseverance, and community have shaped our nation. In Columbus, Wisconsin, those ideals are reflected in our historic streets, landmarks, and generations of citizens who helped build and continue to serve our city. We are here to proudly celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary and honor Columbus’s place in the ongoing American story.

City with Deep Roots

Established along the Crawfish River in the mid-1800’s. Our preserved architecture and historic downtown stand as living reminders of the people who believed in opportunity, freedom, and community. This Fourth of July, we honor that past while celebrating the future we continue to build together

Fourth of July Celebration Highlights

• Patriotic traditions rooted in small town pride.

• Historic downtown streets filled with activity and community.

• Family friendly events for all ages.

Join the Celebration

Whether you’ve called Columbus home your entire life or are visiting for the first time, we invite you to reflect, celebrate, and enjoy a meaningful Independence Day in a city where history still lives. Enjoy the festivities, be safe, and have fun.

Happy Independence Day from the City of Columbus Honoring Our Past - Celebrating Our Future

Welcome FROM THE MAYOR

On behalf of the citizens of the City of Columbus, I am pleased to welcome you to our Independence Day celebration.

There are historic and architectural points of interest in our great community which include one of our banks located downtown, designed by Louis Sullivan, a Frank Lloyd Wright house, Historic City Hall and the notable Governor James Lewis home and also the Kurth Mansion of the Kurth Brewery family. There are many wonderful parks in our community, including our Fireman’s Park which is where the 4th of July celebration is held, and is home to the newly updated pavilion and Rest Haven. Columbus is also home to a Redbud Day celebration, the Odd Fellow’s Food Truck Fest and Oddtoberfest.

We are fortunate to have a great group of volunteers who put forth tremendous effort to ensure a safe enjoyable environment.

As we gather for the 250th celebration of our great nation, please keep in your hearts the sacrifices of our forefathers for us to enjoy our freedoms.

Please enjoy your time in Columbus, and come back to visit us again in the future. God Bless!!

~Joseph G. Hammer

Columbus, WI Mayor

JOSEPH G. HAMMER, MAYOR

Wednesday - July 1st • 5-9pm

DELIVERING THE TOTAL PACKAGE

“Our team members are exceptional, both professionally and personally. At American Packaging Corporation, We understand that our family is the core of who we are.”

We want to thank all of our employees for their hardwork and dedication to APC

Columbus Community Center 125 N Dickason Blvd. Columbus, WI 53925 920-623-5918

scstaff@columbuswi.gov www.cityofcolumbuswi.com

On behalf of the Columbus 4th of July Organization we would like to take this opportunity to express our appreciation to the City of Columbus, City of Columbus Public Works Department, Columbus Utility, Columbus Recreation Department, Columbus Police Department, the State Patrol, DCERT, Columbia County and Dodge County Sheriff’s Departments, Columbus Fire Department and Columbus Lifestar Ambulance Service.

We celebrate our independence but honor the enduring spirit of freedom, unity, and resilience that defines our great nation. On this Fourth of July, we dedicate this celebration to the brave men and women— past and present—who have fought to defend our liberties, and to every citizen who continues to shape the promise of America through hope, hard work, and compassion. Let this day be a reminder of our shared values, our diverse voices, and the strength we find in one another. As fireworks light up the sky, may our hearts be filled with gratitude, pride, and a renewed commitment to the ideals that make this country home.

Please Consider Donating!

The Columbus 4th of July Organization is a Non-Profit that is comprised of non-paid volunteers. We depend on sponsorships from businesses and organizations placing ads in the program as well as monetary donations. We use these funds to cover the costs of bands, entertainment in the parade, fireworks, and more.

Would you like to contribute toward the July 4th Fireworks?

❑ YES, I would like to contribute $ to the Columbus 4th of July Fireworks.

Please make the check payable to the Columbus 4th of July Organization and mail your donation to: Columbus 4th of July Organization PO Box 283, Columbus, WI 53925

We are a 501(c)(3) organization and we can provide a tax identification number upon request.

Thank you for your consideration in helping to continue this event!

Sincerely,

The Columbus 4th of July Organization

TUESDAY, JUNE 30

KIDS 12 AND UNDER

- Color this page and bring it to family night for a chance to win a one day wristband for the Mr. Ed’s Magical Midway rides during the 4th of July Celebration

Wed., July 1

5 :00-9:00pm

Entertaiment Garden opens at 5:00pm

www.nolimitrocks.com

Main Stage

No Limit was the 2024 Rockonsin battle of the bands runner-up, No Limit was formed when young musicians from Monona Grove High School and Columbus High School came together through the Madison Music Foundry. Along with their originals, they play a wide spectrum of what is now classic alt-rock to some. Nirvana, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Green Day, Bush, Tom Petty, Metallica, Foo Fighters and Weezer can round out a great, energetic show. They have fun on stage and try to take you along for the ride!

Thursday, July 2

7 :00-11:00pm

Entertaiment Garden opens at 5:00pm

The Ramble

Main Stage

The Ramble was the winner of Hodag Country Festivals 2024 Country Band Championship and one of five nominees (and only one from WI) for a 2023 Midwest Country Music Award for Tribute Band of the Year. They have had five 2024 Wisconsin Area Music Industry nominations, including Cover Band, Performer (Matt), Male Singer (Matt), and Bassist (Frank the Tank)

Based in southern Wisconsin, The Ramble formed in early 2022. The band plays traditional country music, with a strong gravitation towards 90’s and 00’s country. Live sets take the audience on a ramble through the greats of country music, from classics (Garth Brooks, Travis Tritt, Alan Jackson, Brooks and Dunn) to current stars (Luke Combs, Chris Stapleton) to up-and-comers (Drake White, Jesse Daniels).

Columbus Fourth Fling

CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT

Friday, July 3

FIREMAN’S PARK (BASEBALL DIAMONDS) 1049 PARK AVE., COLUMBUS

PARTNERS ROUND ROBIN

Bring your own partner/bags

4 round, round robin determines up to 3 double elimination brackets

1 game winners, 1 game losers in bracket play

$40 TEAM ENTRY Race to 21 64 team max

A minimum of 6 games played by each team

No carry ins please. Food and beverages available on site. EVENT IS ON SCOREHOLIO SEARCH M.T. POCKETS PRE-REGISTRATION IS APPRECIATED.

Wisconsin Horse Council

Proudly

Mission Statement

Vision Statement

To take a pro-active role in the future growth and development of the equine industry

We carry out our Mission Statement through our many:

• Programs • Awards • Funding

• The WHC also employs a professional lobbyist to assist in evaluating and acting on legislation affecting the equine community

920-623-0393 / www.wisconsinhorsecouncil.org

Friday, July 3

7:00-11:00pm

Entertaiment Garden opens at Noon

Main Stage

The Now has been a staple of the Wisconsin cover band scene for 20 years and has propelled themselves to the biggest festival venues in the market.

Including members from the Milwaukee and Chicago music scenes, The Now provides a wide range of rock, country and pop hits from over 5 decades.

www.thenowband.com

From

Ice Cream

am e Cre Ic to

Columbus Chemical Industries supplies chemistry that makes every day modern life happen!

At CCI, we safely handle acids, bases, salts, solvents and a variety of other chemical categories to deliver custom chemical solutions to a diverse range of industries, both locally and globally.

How does chemistry impact your life?

The blind wordsearch below contains 25 examples of materials and applications our chemistr y supports. How many can you find? How many are part of your day-to - day, or 4th of July weekend?

Since 1978, ser ving chemistry to a diverse range of industries:

• Microelectronics / Semiconductor

• Pharmaceutical, Personal Care & Medical Device

• Biotechnology

• Aerospace & Automotive

• A griculture, Dair y, & Livestock

• Laboratories, Education, and Life Sciences

• Energy, Solar, & Batter y

• Food & Beverage

• Industrial Manufacturing & Construction …and beyond!

You’re Invited! FESTIVITIES

Firecracker 5

5K Run & Walk Begins at 8:30am • Children’s Sparkler Sprint at 9:30am Begins and ends at the Columbus Aquatic Center (250 Folsom St.) in Fireman’s Park

Parade • Begins at Noon

Enjoy color guards, marching bands, classic cars, veterans, and floats, floats, floats. The parade route is a mile and a half long. Families and friends lucky enough to live on the parade route host barbecues while others from Columbus and the area grab spots along coveted stretches of Ludington and Park Avenue for optimal viewing.

Entertainment in Fireman’s Park

Fun for the whole family, including a carnival beginning at 1pm, complete with carousel, ferris wheel, rides, games and more! Entertainment Garden opens at 2pm. Bingo will be in the Park Pavilion starting at 2pm. Enjoy live music from Dakota Tamminga from 2-5pm and Pilot from 7-11:30pm on the Drexel Main Stage in the Entertainment Garden. Entertainment is free! Adult beverages are available in the entertainment garden.

Huge Fireworks Display

Begins at Dusk - THE LARGEST DISPLAY IN THE AREA!

Gather at Columbus Fireman’s Park on or near the ball diamond to celebrate our nation’s birthday with an EXCITING FIREWORKS DISPLAY!

Please Note: Rain date is July 5 for reworks only.

Pilot • 7-11pm Dakota2-5pmTamminga

he t of sponsor proud a is RV t Markquar

7:00-11:30pm

Saturday, July 4 Main Stage

Entertaiment Garden opens at 2:00pm

Madison’s award winning rock band, PILOT, brings you a high-flying, rock-n-roll experience, playing your favorite hits from the 80’s and today! Come fly with us!

pilotmadisonband.com

Sponsored by:

Sunday,

July 5

12:00-2:00pm

jesse walker

Country Music Entertainer

With 60 years of experience in the music entertainment business, be it writing, performing, or recording, Jesse’s charm, sincerity and authentic vocal talent, on and off the stage has endeared him to many a country music fan. He plays a variety of music, such as Country, Polka, Blue Grass, Waltzes, Gospel, 50’s, 60’s, 70’s and Country Line Dance.

Columbus Park Upstairs in the Pavilion 1049 Park Ave. (Handicap Accessible)

2:00-4:00pm

david austin polka band

The David Austin Polka Band has performed in Madison and Southern Wisconsin for over 30 years, playing your favorite Polka, Waltz and American Standards. Come have a beer and enjoy fun Polka music.

hy

F

romm? Because caring

viding

– it star ts with a dedication to providing exceptional foods to pet families ever ywhere. It's a driving force to do things better; to discover nve w products that bring health, happiness, and wellness to our beloved fourlegged family members. Caring more means a hands-on family from the top office to the factor y floor, sweating the smallest details and setting the highest standards, so our proud reputation for innovation, value, and quality lives on for generations to come.