Upper Valley celebrates America's 250th anniversary with community gathering

Noah Bellin dresses the part for the Fourth of July holiday.

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Kids play history trivia with the Leavenworth Lions Club.

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A young community member signs the Declaration of Independence.

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One tent shares the stories of Joel Avecedo and Carlos Sarabia, both of whom have made significant impacts in the community.

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Attendees learn about the history of the Burgess family, the oldest living pioneer family in the upper valley.

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Danzas Multiculturales were one of several performers throughout the night.

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Several fly-bys were made by different aircraft, including the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office helicopter.

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Leavenworth Rotary Club of Leavenworth hosts an activity inspired by its annual Great Bavarian Duck Race fundraiser event.

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The evening highlighted the history of several longstanding families in the valley.

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The evening concludes with “A Walk Through Greatest Moments in History" laser light show from Nelson Family Lights.

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Posted Sunday, July 5, 2026 1:40 pm

By TAYLOR CALDWELL
Ward Media Staff Reporter

LEAVENWORTH — The upper valley celebrated America’s 250th anniversary on July 4 with a night focused on community.

Families gathered for dinner at Alpine Lakes Elementary while kids played in the waterfall created by Chelan County Fire District #3’s fire truck ladder, ran around the field, and engaged in games led by local organizations.

The evening showcased local history, including long-standing community members and descendants of some of the earliest pioneer families. It also highlighted the nation’s history, passing out booklets with the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, and displaying educational banners and documentaries.

In addition to several patriotic ceremonies, the evening featured performances by Danzas Multiculturales, Leavenworth Alphorns, Devorah Gottesman and the Bavarian Brass Quartet.

Throughout the night, the celebration was visited by fly-bys of historic and local aircraft, including a helicopter from Chelan County Sheriff’s Office.

The evening concluded with “A Walk Through Greatest Moments in History" laser light show from Nelson Family Lights.

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media