Gearing up for the 4th of July in Butte, Montana

As we've noted before, Butte tends to get their celebrations started a bit early over some holidays.  And others have been know to go a few days past as well.  This 4th of July will fall on a Tuesday, which naturally means that by carefully using one sick day, you have a 4-day weekend.  And there may be nothing more Butte, America than that.  Here we are the Friday before the 4th and we're not even officially into July yet preparations for the big day are underway.  Here are some of the telltale signs you'll see around town.

TRUCKS WITH TRAILERS AND CHAIRS WITH CAUTION TAPE ARE STARTING TO FILL PARKING SPOTS ON HARRISON AVENUE.

The parade route again this year is from the Civic Center, south on Harrison to Elizabeth Warren and we are already starting to see a lot of pickups and flatbeds taking up rarely occupied parking spaces along the corridor.  We're also seeing the usual string of chairs held together with caution tape making its much anticipated return.  Yes, Butte loves a parade, and some folks are prepared to go to extreme lengths for a good seat.

FIREWORKS, FIREWORKS AND MORE FIREWORKS.

Butte is known to have a certain affection for explosions and blowing things up.  I say it goes back to our grandfathers who used to blast underground in the mines and it became engrained in our DNA.  Yes, fireworks sale and use in Butte is currently legal and the closer we get to the actual holiday, each evening will grow increasingly louder as more and more families set off their personal stash.  So be prepared.  And if you are the owner of a dog or cat, this may be the time to look into CBD dosages.  They can be a lifesaver is your pet doesn't enjoy the fireworks as much as others.

PICNICS AND PARTIES ARE GOING TO BE EVERYWHERE.

So, be prepared.  Now is the time to take advantage on beer and pop while many stores in town have the things you'll need for a great barbecue on sale.  And if you plan on crashing a few parties, don't show up empty handed.  Remember to bring a twelve pack, some deviled eggs or a few bags of chips.  And remember to have a great 4th here in Butte!