For years, Excelsior and other lake communities have been coming together to celebrate the national holiday. The Fourth of July takes off at 8 a.m. at Excelsior Elementary School and ends in the Excelsior Commons with a fun run and 5K/10K hosted by Steele Fitness. The fun run is just the beginning; it’s followed by a sand sculpture contest, the Water Street parade, a fishing contest, an air show, live music and food. At dusk, view Lake Minnetonka’s spectacular firework show by land at the Excelsior Commons or by boat on Excelsior Bay. It is the only public fireworks show on Lake Minnetonka. Free. Check website for event details. excelsior-lakeminnetonkachamber.com