Those celebrating the fourth of July in Pella will get to enjoy a wide range of activities at a new time this year. The group has moved festivities, including the annual parade, to the late afternoon and evening this Thursday, a change that was made to allow families to enjoy activities later in the day, similar to Thursdays in Pella. Swimming at the aquatic center kicks off the afternoon at 2 p.m., and fishing at Caldwell Park will start at 3 p.m. for kids and families to enjoy. Michael Comstock with Comstock Quality Tackle says their staff will be volunteering, and he hopes several children come out with their parents to enjoy fishing and a relaxing start to activities. Games, horse-drawn carriage rides, food stands, and crafts in Central Park begin at around 4 p.m. on July 4th, with the annual parade from 6 to 7:30 p.m. down Franklin Street — and entries are still being accepted. The Pella City Band will perform on the Tulip Toren from 8 to 9 p.m., with fireworks starting over by Madison Elementary at 10 p.m.

Leighton celebrated their festivities a day later than normal due to Friday’s heavy rain, with all activities planned still going on Saturday, with several people turning out.

The KNIA/KRLS Lil’ Big Red Radio will participate in Pella’s festivities this week after celebrating in Leighton over the weekend.