2. Riverfest

The Buzz -- Celebrate the nation's birthday on the banks of the mighty Mississippi – in beautiful Riverside Park to be exact, just a stone's throw from the downtown historic district. With kid-friendly games and rides, terrific live music, and world-class water skiers, Riverfest is entertainment for the entire family. The five-day event also includes fun 5-K and 10-K road races, and spectacular fireworks displays always draw plenty of "oohs and aahs."