A little bit of rain couldn’t dampen spirits during another great Fourth of July celebration in Albert Lea, as thousands filled the streets for what has truly become the city’s signature event.

The parade on the third had its usual drawing power, with a crowd larger than the population of Albert Lea lining the streets for the nearly 2-mile, two-and-a-half-hour parade. Dozens of floats wowed the crowd, as the hard work of hundreds culminated in a parade to remember.

And on Friday, the area’s residents could enjoy the fruits of their own generosity with the fireworks show, paid for not by the city but by donations from the people. While some other cities have had to cut their fireworks shows because of budget concerns, Albert Lea’s was as good as ever, if a little damp.

The addition of a carnival downtown only added to the festive atmosphere and gave people another entertainment option. We hope they will be back in future years.

Overall, Albert Lea proved once again that it’s the place to be in southern Minnesota for Independence Day activities. The celebration is a community effort from top to bottom, and one we can all be proud of.