Sandpoint's hometown Fourth of July celebration arrives one day early this year (since the 4th falls on a Sunday), but this charming salute to the grand ol' USA still includes all of the traditional favorites that make this holiday special.

    The Sandpoint Lions Club sponsors this great day of fun for the community Saturday, July 3, beginning with parades through downtown Sandpoint's streets in the morning, followed by stage performances and an ATV raffle at City Beach in the afternoon, and ending with a memorable fireworks show over Lake Pend Oreille at dusk (pictured above is the view of the fireworks from City Beach - it's awesome!).

    In the spirit of our nation's salute to freedom, the Bird Aviation Museum and Invention Center, located south of Sandpoint at 1655 Glengary Road in Sagle, invites the community to share in a once-in-a-lifetime event Saturday, July 17, when they host the Women of Courage Celebration in honor of the WASPS (Women's Air Corps Service Pilots), civilian female pilots employed to fly military aircrafts during World War II.

    This special day is filled with memorable events for all: a Fly-In at 9 a.m. at the Bird Airport; a special "unveiling" and ceremony at 10 a.m. in honor of WASPS and all Women Of Courage; and from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., WASPS and other pioneers will greet the community, telling stories and educating guests both young and old. BirdAviationMuseum.com.

    For a dayhike that's easy to get to, and offers a huge reward at the end with its incredible views, nothing beats Gold Hill Trail No. 3. The lower trailhead is on Bottle Bay Road in Sagle (from the turnoff at Highway 95, the drive is 4.3 miles), with parking and an outhouse.

    Gold Hill Trail has a relatively steady grade interspersed with easy-walking sections, and rises more than 2,000 feet in its length before ending on a rocky knob that commands a view of Sandpoint, the Long Bridge, Lake Pend Oreille and a long arm of the Pend Oreille River stretching off toward Washington.

    The trail is good for kids who are ready for something a bit more adventurous, and because of its shady north-facing terrain, it's great on a summer day. Get out there and have fun!

    If you want to get a real taste of Sandpoint's local art scene, don't miss one of the area's favorite summer events - ArtWalk! Take to the streets from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, July 30, and visit over 25 downtown-area venues who will be hosting opening receptions for the artists.

    This is a chance not only to savor incredible local art, but to check out Sandpoint's summer evening vibe. Many of the galleries and shops will have complimentary wine, appetizers and live music, as well, so it makes for a very enjoyable outing. There is no cost to attend; self-guided maps can be found at participating locations throughout downtown, or find more information by visiting ArtinSandpoint.org.