Phelps gears up for a festive Fourth of July celebration

The annual Phelps Fourth of July celebration will take place on Friday, July 4, with festivities kicking off at 3 p.m. with the Grand Parade.

Parade participants — including floats, vintage cars, UTVs, marching groups, and anyone else who wants to join — are asked to line up on Town Hall Road in Phelps by 2:45 p.m. Participation is open to all, and no registration is required.

This year’s Grand Parade Marshal is Jason Pertile, dean of students at Phelps School. The Phelps Chamber shared that Pertile received several well-deserved nominations, including one that praised his dedication:

“Pertile has been a steady, compassionate presence in our school, working tirelessly to support students of all ages — especially our youngest learners — as they navigate both academic and personal challenges. Whether he’s guiding a student through a tough situation, offering encouragement, or simply being a kind and reliable face in the hallway, he brings unmatched dedication and humanity to his role.

“Beyond his leadership as dean of students, Pertile has also given his time and talent as a coach for both girls and boys basketball teams over the years. On the court, he teaches far more than just the game — he models perseverance, teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. His players look up to him not just as a coach, but as a mentor and role model who genuinely cares about their development both as athletes and as people.

“Pertile’s impact stretches far beyond the walls of the school and the lines of the court. He is a leader who leads by example, a champion for youth, and a cornerstone of the Phelps community. His work has touched the lives of countless students and families, and his legacy is one of compassion, commitment, and excellence.”

The chamber said they’re proud to have Pertile leading this year’s parade.

But the parade is just the beginning of the fun. There will be games and raffles throughout the day, including a bounce house with slides for the kids.

A new addition this year is a Cornhole Tournament at 4 p.m. To register, contact the Phelps Chamber.

Food will be available from Dublin’s Paddy Wagon, Pine Cone Express, Taco Dan’s, and Sweets, Treats and More. Beer and hard seltzers will be sold by the Phelps Fire
Department, and the Phelps Chamber will offer soft drinks and popcorn.

Live music begins with Jackson Taylor performing from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., followed by headliner Night Shift from 6 to 10 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and enjoy the music.

In between sets, the fifth annual Boat Parade on North Twin Lake begins at 5 p.m. Residents, visitors, and local organizations are invited to decorate their boats and join the fun. The parade starts at the Millerville Lane boat launch (off Highway 17) and travels along the shoreline through downtown Phelps, ending at Dublin Sports Bar and Grill. Participants should arrive at the boat launch by 4:45 p.m.

The Chicken Swap Cash Raffle drawing will take place at 7:30 p.m., with one lucky winner taking home a $1,000 cash prize. There will also be 50/50 raffles held throughout the day.

The celebration will wrap up with a fireworks display at dusk, presented by the Phelps Area Volunteer Fire Department.

For more information, visit the Phelps Wisconsin Facebook page or phelpswi.us, email chamber-office@phelpswi.us, or call 715-545-3800.