Annual July 4th Trip to Valleyfair

We had another great day at our annual Mason Family Fourth of July trip to Valleyfair.

Every day at Valleyfair should begin with careful planning. Here, Katie plans out her day riding on her favorite rides.....
...the Bumble Bee Ride with cousin Teagan.....
...the "Mild Thing" roller coaster...
...and the Frog Hopper.

Prudent amusement park patrons are careful to read the warning labels before subjecting themselves to the "inherent risks" of riding amusement rides. Here, we are reminded that certain rides are "dynamic" and "thrilling." My nephew Karsten barely meets the height requirement to ride Steel Venom.
Steel Venom launches riders at speeds of 68 mph within seconds!

Kenzie was brave enough to try it this year...and survived!

Long days at Valleyfair can be tiring, unless you have alternative transportation........
Here, my brother-in-law Aaron rides either the "Hurricane" or "Cyclone", as I recall.

Katie just chills out in her stroller.

Any Fourth of July Celebration is not complete without fireworks. Valleyfair offers some of the area's best.

So you show up a half-hour early to stake out a spot to watch fireworks, but there is always some schmuck who comes at the last minute, or after the fireworks start, and then stands right in front of you. Here was our view (discreetly blurred).

Grand Finale

The long day takes its toll even on those who got to ride in strollers all day...

My niece Ava crashes on her mom's lap....



Katie finally succumbs to heavy eyelids on the trip home!