Good morning, Mankato.

Records from the Blue Earth County Historical Society show that Mankato’s July 4th celebrations once featured large parades and pageants beginning in the 1880s (a cannon misfire in 1909 even broke windows) but now consist mainly of a modest fireworks show for family picnics.

Thunder of Drums returns Tuesday at Blakeslee Stadium with eight drum and bugle corps plus a high school band clinic hosted by the Maverick Machine.

Mankato Kiwanis Club presents the 34th edition starting at 7 p.m. as numbered, reserved tickets ensure every community member a seat.

The southern Minnesota Red Cross announced more than 30 blood drives will take place in Mankato through August to meet the constant need for blood by 100 local hospitals and clinics (20 scheduled in the next two weeks), with appointments available via the Red Cross Blood Donor app.

Flandrau State Park campgrounds are fully booked for the 4th of July weekend, with (over 70 sites) reserved for families to enjoy the hiking trails, pool and other amenities.

Jacob Walters booked almost the entire week starting Tuesday so his family can spend quality time outdoors.

DCI: Drum Corps International

5:30-10 p.m. — Blakeslee Stadium — All Sales Final — Experience thrilling performances from elite drum corps at this exciting community event.

Billy Currington Concert

7 p.m. — Vetter Stone Amphitheatre — Tickets available — Enjoy live country music under the stars with Billy Currington.

Lee Brice Concert

7:30 p.m. — Vetter Stone Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Country music superstar Lee Brice brings his hit-making voice to Mankato with new singles and fan favorites.