Red, White, and Boom!

While the perennially epic fireworks display at Minneapolis's Red, White, and Boom might stir up feelings of patriotism and grandeur, the most quintessentially American aspect of the festival will be onstage rather than in the sky. Two musical acts slated to appear at the Father Hennepin Bluffs Park's stage are pure Americana, the kind that not only unites the nation in music, but permeates social boundaries throughout the globe. They are Karl Commers's Neil Diamond Tribute Show and Art Kistler's Elvis Tribute Show. Like musical superheroes, both men cast off their daytime identities when in the public eye, taking on the mantel of supermen to save the world from the doldrums brought on by mere cover bands. In addition to these American heroes, Red, White, and Boom will feature a family fun zone with entertainment by roving performers throughout the park; music by Orange Whip, the Mick Sterling Band, and Grayson; and the aforementioned 10 p.m. explosive display. The best option for parking is probably the St. Anthony Falls ramp on Second Avenue Southeast. Biking is also an option, of course, but cyclists should be warned that the Stone Arch Bridge will be closed to bikes due to the heavy pedestrian traffic. Visit www.mplsredwhiteboom.com for more info. (photo by foxypar4)
Sat., July 4, 6-10 p.m., 2009