What was initiated by members of the St. Magdalen Catholic Church in Lennox in the 1980s has become one of the largest events in South Dakota.
The Old Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration attracts nearly 12,000 attendees each year, significantly increasing its population of about 2,500 residents.
“It used to be a one-day event with worship and gathering,” explained Lennox Commercial Club president Eric Machmuller. “Members of the Lennox Commercial Club later took on the organizing and expanded the events to include a parade, music, and a car show.”
“THERE’S ENOUGH CANDY AT THE EVENT TO KEEP THE DENTISTS BUSY, I’M SURE!” – TYLER TORDSEN
The now two-day event will celebrate its 43rd year this summer, kicking off the smalltown charm on July 3 with a Cruise Night on Main Street, a Little Miss Pageant at The Bandshell in Westerman Park, and a street dance with live music until 1 a.m.
“Some of the past street dance musicians have included Judd Hoos, Dustin Evans, The Dweebs, Johnny Holm, and Weston Frank,” said Machmuller.
Independence Day follows suit with a Firecracker Run at the high school, followed by the main event—the parade. Candy flies through the sky from patriotic floats as kids dive to collect the sweets, and tiny flags wave from lawn chairs and packed crowds.
The Little Miss Pageant is one of the more recent events added to the Old Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration. Girls 3 to 13 compete to be crowned Little Miss Lennox, divided into four age groups. Each contestant displays proper etiquette, poise, confidence, and their unique personalities on stage.
“AFTER LUNCH, MANY KIDS MAKE THEIR WAY TO THE KIDDIE TRACTOR PULL.” – ERIC MACHMULLER
“I think thousands of people come because the event was organized by community members that started the event based on values and fellowship, hence the ‘Old Fashioned’ part of the event,” said Machmuller.
Following the parade, craft and food vendors are “ready for the surge” at Westerman Park, where the giant crowd merges over to enjoy more entertainment.
“Live music plays in the background as families enjoy the park and indulge in their favorite food truck offerings,” described Machmuller. “Many people find their way around the park to check out the vast selection of cars in the Car Show.”
The Car Show is from noon to 3 p.m., featuring over 100 current and vintage cars, trucks, motorcycles, and tractors. Awards are given at the end of the event, including the “prestigious” People’s Choice.
“Some are new, some are old, but they’re always in beautiful shape,” said Machmuller of the vehicle spectacle.
The day ends with music at the bandshell at 8 p.m., followed by the fireworks display at the high school parking lot at dusk.
“The fireworks display feels like a show that would be seen at a much larger town than Lennox,” said Machmuller. “So many people say it’s the best display around.”
“WHEN PEOPLE ARE SUPPORTING LOCAL EVENTS, ESTABLISHMENTS, AND ACTIVITIES IN A SMALL TOWN,THOSE DOLLARS RECYCLE AND MULTIPLY IN IMPACT. ADD IN A FEW THOUSAND MORE VISITORS FROM OUTSIDE OF CITY LIMITS AND IMPACT IS EXPONENTIAL.” – TYLER TORDSEN, PRESIDENT & CEO OF SIOUX METRO GROWTH ALLIANCE
As it is one of the largest Fourth of July events in the state (if not the largest), the Lennox Commercial Club recommends coming early due to traffic and 2026 construction. Attendees should also be aware that due to the overflow of people during the parade, cell service is limited, so groups should coordinate their parade location ahead of time or stay close for communication.
Coming together is what Machmuller says is his favorite part of the annual Old Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration.
“I truly love the park after the parade,” he recalled. “When everyone is in the park there are smiles everywhere! It truly makes you feel what a small community is, seeing your neighbors, new faces, and pure joy by all—all enjoying our independence.”
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