There’s something special about a town tradition that manages to grow without losing its original heart. For more than 50 years, Eagan’s July 4th Funfest has delivered just that: an entirely volunteer-led celebration that continues to bring neighbors together year after year.
What began decades ago with a parade from Cedarvale Mall to Rahn Elementary, complete with turtle races, grilled burgers, and Boy Scout fundraisers, has since blossomed into a multi-day celebration that now fills the Eagan Community Center grounds and beyond. This year’s celebration expanded once again, with a bonus day of music, food trucks, and fun hosted by Viking Lakes on July 5th.
Not Just Any Independence Day Celebration
Still, even with the fireworks, carnival rides, and food truck fare, it’s the people behind the event who make it truly stand out from other Independence Day celebrations. “Our goal has always been to host a free event that brings the community together,” said Marie Olson, longtime board member and co-leader of the ambassador scholarship program. “It’s grown beyond what we ever imagined, but it’s still run by people who simply love this city.”
That love for Eagan is especially clear in the Ambassador Program, which continues to attract students of all backgrounds. Co-led by Olson and Karen Dare, the program introduces two levels of community involvement: high schoolers serve as ambassadors, while middle school students take part as junior ambassadors.
“We’re really proud of how diverse and dedicated our candidates are,” said Dare. “This year, we had ten incredible students participate in our six-week candidate program, and up to six were selected to represent Eagan for the year. That includes showing up at events, speaking on behalf of the city, and attending community parades.”
Growing Leadership and Confidence
Over the course of their year-long reign, ambassadors participate in roughly 70 events. Through it all, they grow their leadership skills, gain confidence, and give back to the city they represent. At the end of the program, they receive a scholarship to pursue further education.
The junior ambassador program is also gaining momentum, thanks in part to local sponsors like Eagan City Lifestyle Magazine. “We’re proud to support a junior ambassador next year,” said Amy Sousa, Eagan City Lifestyle. “This program encourages kids to be themselves while building real-world skills they’ll carry into adulthood.”
Many candidates are sponsored by local doctors, dentists, business owners, and organizations. It’s a $300 commitment that goes far beyond the sash. The sponsor’s name is worn proudly by the ambassador and recognized at events throughout the year.
Libby Montreuil of Boulder Images, another local sponsor, added, "The communities are so good to us; it is good to give back."
Thinking About Funfest 2026?
If you missed this year’s Funfest, don’t worry. The celebration continues all year long. From Eagan Market Fest appearances to community cleanups and holiday events, you’re bound to see the ambassadors out and about.
“Say hello if you spot them,” Dare encouraged. “Kids look up to them like local celebrities. It’s fun to see the admiration they spark.”
It’s also fun to see the transformation. Olson’s own daughter was once a candidate, and though she didn’t make the cut the first time, she came back again the following year. That experience, and the confidence she gained, made a lasting impression.
“She was shy, unsure, and didn’t know how to speak up,” Olson said. “By the end of her time in the program, she was leading conversations, and her confidence was growing. Now she’s graduating from college and heading to New York to chase her dreams as an actress. That’s the kind of impact this program has.”
To learn more, follow @eaganjuly4funfest and @eaganfunfestambassadors on Instagram or check out facebook.com/eaganfunfest. Applications for next year’s ambassador program open in April.
And if your student is thinking about applying? Olson’s advice: “Encourage them to just be who they are. We’ll help with the rest.”
“This started small, but now it brings thousands together to celebrate Eagan, connection, and community.”