History

MSU celebrates old-fashioned Fourth

By Patrick Condon
The Forum

Revelers at Moorhead State University's 23rd annual Old Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration didn't let the threat of rain or thunderstorms diminish their enjoyment of the Independence Day festivities Tuesday.

Early in the day, there was significant shower activity in the Fargo-Moorhead area, and the National Weather Service had forecast continued chance of widespread rain and some chance of thunderstorms.

But even though gray storm clouds darkened the western horizon in Moorhead, at least by late afternoon there had been little rainfall since morning. The biggest hazards were a few big puddles and a little bit of mud.

The threat of rain didn't dampen attendance at the celebration, or the spirits of those who attended. By 3 p.m., the main MSU parking lot was full, with more people streaming in.

"Maybe there are a few less people here than the last couple of years," one food vendor said, "but not by much."

Celebration-goers stayed optimistic. Every time the sun peeked out from behind the clouds, a murmur would run through the crowd: "Here comes the sun, here comes the sun."

Claire Hagen of Fargo said she and her family decided to brave the weather.

"(the Fourth of July) is just a time when you want to be around a lot of people," she said. "Who wants to inside all day?"

Still, Hagen added that she made sure to pack a couple of umbrellas and ponchos. Some people said they preferred the less-than-tropical weather conditions. "If it was hot as blazes, like the week before last, everybody would just want to stay inside with the air conditioning," said Burt Richman of Fergus Falls, Minn.

Those who come out were treated to a full day of activities. There were stagecoach rides, bands, military exhibits, a kids-decorated bicycle show, and plenty of games and food.

Celebration planners said there was plenty to do inside if it did rain, with MSU planetarium shows on the hour, art exhibits and a cartoon festival. All in all, the attitude at the celebration remained optimistic - if guarded.

"If it rains, it rains, and we'll go indoors," Kelly Hart of Moorhead said. "But right now, at least, we're having a good time."