One Montana community has been celebrating the Fourth of July for days.

The city of Choteau really goes all out for the Fourth of July, and although the nation's birthday takes place on the fourth, Choteau plans a week's worth of special events leading up to the holiday.

What better reason to go all out than the celebration of the nation's birth? That is the attitude in the community of Choteau, where the festivities begin well before July fourth. According to the Choteau Chamber of Commerce, the ongoing events this week boost the city's economy during tough economic times.

Donna Alzheimer, a volunteer at the Choteau Information Center, explains, "It's very good for the city of Choteau, it brings a lot of business to town, our hotels and motels are always packed, our campgrounds are filled, we just have so many activities that it does a lot of business for Choteau."

This week, there is something for everyone in Choteau. Events include downtown sidewalk sales, a carnival, 5K run, parade, fireworks, and much more. One of the biggest draws is Choteau's summer festival, organized by the Jaycees and held in City Park.

Sally Haas says, "It's a great way to kick off the fourth, get everybody in a festive mood, and bring them together as friends and family."

Seth Langford says, "We celebrate America and our freedom."

The festival showcases regional artists, along with vendors selling a variety of items. Concession stands provide many options to satisfy anyone's taste. Festival-goers say when it comes to kicking off a celebration, Choteau does it best.

Judy Balas says, "This is by far the best celebration for the Fourth of July in the whole state of Montana."

Dodie Sekora says, "Fourth of July in Choteau is always a great weekend, everybody comes, we celebrate with parades, bake sales, and rodeos."

Sherwin Smith says, "Come over and see what small-town America is all about."

On the fourth, the Annual American Legion Rodeo wraps up a busy week in Choteau. The NRA sanctioned event draws a huge crowd to the city, and caps off an exciting week for this Montana Community.

The rodeo begins at 2p.m. at the Choteau Rodeo Grounds, and features many events. For more information, head to http://russell.visitmt.com/listings/13034.htm