With no city-sponsored Fourth of July event planned this year, members of the Geneva Masonic Lodge have stepped in to organize a free community celebration along the city’s lakefront.
The Geneva Masons will host the event from 4 to 6 p.m. on July 4 at the lakefront gazebo across from the Geneva Visitor Center. The gathering is open to the public and will feature live music, historical speeches, food vendors, and patriotic sing-alongs.
Casey McDonald, a member of the Geneva Masonic Lodge, said the idea came together after lodge members learned the city would not be hosting its own Independence Day event for the nation’s 250th anniversary.
“We heard the city of Geneva didn’t have any money to put on an event [and] they weren’t planning on doing anything, so I said to my brothers, let’s step to the plate and do something,” McDonald said. “It’s not one of these ordinary years. This is kind of an extraordinary time.”
The event will feature the Andy Stobie Brass Band performing songs from throughout American history. Interspersed throughout the performance will be readings of notable historical documents and speeches, including the Declaration of Independence, the Gettysburg Address, Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech, and President John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address.
McDonald said organizers hope the event encourages residents to reflect on the nation’s history while enjoying an afternoon of family-friendly entertainment.
“It’s going to be a good time for everybody — music, upbeat historical speeches, sing-alongs, and a few other surprises,” he said.
Food vendors will also be on hand, and the Geneva Fire Department plans to display its large American flag during part of the celebration.
McDonald said the Masons organized the event in just a few months with support from local businesses and community members.
Founded in 1807, the Geneva Masonic Lodge is one of the area’s oldest civic organizations. In addition to hosting community events, the lodge participates in charitable activities and local service projects throughout the year.
More information about the Geneva Masons can be found at genevamasons.org.
