On Friday, Mother Nature was in a very good mood. Feeling patriotic, she delivered a perfect weather day for local celebrations including the several activities going on all day long in Lincoln.

The morning parade was very well attended; the annual water fight was a hoot, and the evening of fireworks at the Lincoln Park District was a blast, literally!

Be sure to check today's edition for 317 photos in three amazing slideshows.

Photos by Nila Smith    (Click on image for larger version.)