By Linda Coppess, President/CEO, Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber
There is something truly special about the 4th of July in Coeur d’Alene. For many of us who grew up here in the 1970s and 1980s, those summer days hold some of our most cherished memories—parading down Sherman Avenue with our sports teams, waving to the crowds from floats, and racing off afterward for snow cones, swimming and fireworks with family and friends.
I remember the joy of participating in the parade year after year—first as a young gymnast, then later with my softball team(s), and eventually with my Coeur d’Alene High School cheer squad alongside our marching band. The sidewalks were packed, the community was out in full force, and there was a feeling in the air that was hard to describe but impossible to forget. It was magic. It was hometown pride. It was Coeur d’Alene at its very best.
That’s why I’m so excited—and incredibly honored—that the Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber continues to host what has become the largest annual event in North Idaho. Each year, between 70,000 and 75,000 people gather here in our community to celebrate not just our nation’s independence, but each other. This year’s theme, Home of the Brave, is a tribute to the men and women of our military—those who have served and those who continue to serve—to protect the freedoms that make this celebration, and our way of life, possible.
We are so grateful to our presenting sponsor, Idaho Central Credit Union (ICCU) for helping to bring this celebration to life again in 2025. As ICCU’s Chief Community Officer, Roxanne Kusler put it so beautifully: “This event brings our entire community together to honor our nation, celebrate our freedoms, and recognize the heroes who make it all possible. It’s a true reflection of the pride and spirit that make Coeur d’Alene such an extraordinary place to live and work.”
This year’s festivities begin on July 3 with the Kiddie Parade, hosted by the City of Coeur d’Alene—a heartwarming nod to the next generation of community leaders. Then, on July 4, the streets will come alive with the American Heroes Parade, with our Hometown Heroes leading the way: Grand Marshal, Charlie Nipp, Military Hero of the Year, Stephen Durfee, Citizen of the Year, Dr. Nick Swayne, and Volunteer of the Year, Jody Azevedo—each one an inspiring example of service, leadership, and community spirit.
“Planning the parade is an absolute labor of love,” said Briana Francis, Parade Director. “There’s nothing like watching the excitement on kids’ faces as the floats go by or seeing our veterans honored with the respect they deserve. It’s not just a parade—it’s a celebration of who we are as a community.”
After the parade, head to City Park where my friend, Michael Koep (a fellow 1987 Coeur d’Alene Viking graduate) of Koep Concerts, with the help of STCU, has prepared an awesome afternoon filled with food, live music (including artists: Oskar Owens, Jess Kutz & Riverboat Dave, Dr. Phil and the Enablers and The RUB), face painting, artisan vendors, and more. The celebration wraps with the most spectacular fireworks show over Lake Coeur d’Alene—presented by the Hagadone Family of Companies: The CDA Resort, Hagadone Marine & Boat Group, and Hagadone Media and Technologies. Each year, they prepare an unforgettable experience that reminds us just how blessed we are to call this beautiful place home.
But we can’t do it alone.
This event relies on the support of over 100 volunteers and the generosity of local businesses. If you’re a business owner, I invite you to partner with us. Sponsorship not only helps cover the cost of this beloved community tradition, it also puts your brand in front of tens of thousands of people in the heart of North Idaho. And if you’re someone who simply loves this town—volunteer with us. It’s a great way to give back and be a part of something truly special.
My hope is that every child growing up in Coeur d’Alene today walks away from this year’s celebration with the same sense of wonder and pride that I did. Let’s bring the magic back. Let’s celebrate our community, our freedom, and each other.
Visit www.cdachamber.com and click on the Fourth of July tab to learn how you can get involved. I hope to see you there—cheering, laughing, and making memories to last a lifetime.
Happy Independence Day, America!
