Some July fourth events continue on southern peninsula

Amid the ongoing novel coronavirus pandemic in Alaska, celebrating Independence Day is going to look a little different for many people this year.

Across the state, large gatherings and events have been and continue to be canceled in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19 among Alaska residents. In Seward, which is experiencing an outbreak, all Fourth of July events have been canceled and many businesses have voluntarily closed their doors for the time being.

While some official July Fourth events on the southern Kenai Peninsula are canceled, others are not.

The official parades in Homer, Anchor Point and Seldovia are not happening this year. Tentative plans for a community-led parade in Homer are circulating online.

In Homer, the Homer Elks Lodge 2127 is still hosting its annual “Annual Fourth of July BBQ” at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, July 4. The lodge will provide food, drinks, games and fun for $20 per person, $25 per couple or $30 per family. For more information, call 907-235-2335 or visit the Homer Elks Lodge 2127 Facebook page.

Continuing a longstanding tradition, the Ninilchik Rodeo will go on as planned this weekend, Friday through Sunday, a the Kenai Peninsula Fairgrounds in Ninilchik. Admission is free as the rodeo celebrates 60 years on the peninsula.

The schedule is as follows:

Friday

7 p.m. Peninsula Horseman’s Association Barrel Race

8 p.m., Ranch Rodeo

Saturday

10 a.m., Horse Race at Ninilchik Beach

Noon, Junior Rodeo

4 p.m., Rodeo Grand Entry

6 p.m., Community barbecue and rodeo history

Sunday

9 a.m., Cowboy Church

10 a.m., High School Rodeo