Minnesota summers are full of fun and entertainment for all ages, and Excelsior homes for sale are right in the midst of the excitement. Here are two popular events offering another reason to make your home in Excelsior.

Lake Minnetonka 4th of July Celebration

Holidays are full of shared traditions that bring communities closer together. For more than 130 years, people have gathered for the day-long Lake Minnetonka 4th of July Celebration. More than 200,000 people are estimated to participate in the waterfront activities centered at Commons Park in downtown Excelsior.

• The day kicks off bright and early at 7:30 a.m. with the Firecracker Run. Choose from 5K and 10K timed races or a one-mile fun run. Routes begin at Excelsior Elementary and end at the Commons. Early registration fees, which include a t-shirt, are $30 for the one mile run and $42 for the longer races.
  
  
• Kids have plenty to do, starting with a sand sculpture contest on Excelsior Beach at 9 a.m. Since it's not the 4th of July without a parade, kids are invited to get on their bikes, scooters, and wagons at 11 a.m. and join the parade down Water Street. Afterward, they can enjoy a petting zoo until 1 p.m.
  
  
• As day moves into evening, musical entertainment begins at 8 p.m. with a performance by the Red Devils, a rock band offshoot of the 34th Infantry Division Red Bull Band. Just before 10 p.m., the Red Bull Band will perform the National Anthem as the event concludes with a spectacular fireworks show over Lake Minnetonka.

10,000 Lakes Concours d'Elegance

During summer, many find it hard to resist the call of open roads and waterways. Check out some of the finest classic automobiles, motorcycles, and watercraft at the seventh annual 10,000 Lakes Concours d'Elegance, taking place Sunday, July 28 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

• In the Concours d'Elegance, which translates to "competition of elegance," vehicles in the three different categories are judged on "style, elegance, and beauty." Prizes are also awarded to the top three participants dressed in period clothing to match their vehicle.
  
  
• Other activities scheduled for the day include a kids' zone and live entertainment. Cruise around Lake Minnetonka in a beautiful vintage watercraft for only $20. Food and beverage vendors will be on hand along with local artists and live painters.
  
  
• The awards presentation will begin at 2:30 p.m. Master of ceremonies F. Edward Lucas II is an automotive expert who performs similar duties at Concours events around the country.
  
  
• Tickets may be purchased online for $20 until July 1 and will be available day of the event for $25. Kids 12 and under and active military personnel are admitted free of charge. Proceeds benefit Bridging, an organization providing furniture and household goods to people transitioning from homelessness and poverty. Free parking and shuttle service is offered at Excelsior Elementary and Minnetonka High School.

Are you ready to start looking for an amazing new home in Excelsior? Contact Homes by Joel for assistance from our friendly and experienced real estate agents.