Fourth of July in Sussex is about to get a little more entertaining thanks to the Rabid Aardvarks.

Yes, you read that correctly. The Rabid Aardvarks is a top 40s cover band with Waukesha roots, and Sussex officials recently signed the musicians to jam out before the annual fireworks show in Sussex Village Park.

“This is the first year we’ve had the sponsorship to do Fourth of July entertainment,” said Parks and Recreation Director Amy Flaherty. “People always grill out and play games at Village Park throughout the day while waiting for fireworks. In the past we’ve had patriotic music in the background, but this year we’re excited to really upgrade the entertainment.”

Performing from 6 – 9 p.m. on July 4 at the Lions Open Air Shelter, the band is slated to make Sussex’s annual Fourth of July event more than just fireworks.

Fourth of July Celebrations

Kiddie Parade

• 9:15 a.m. - Line up behind the Sussex Village Hall in parking lot.
• 9:30 a.m. - Parade participants march west on Main Street to the Village Park. Upon arrival, children will enjoy ice cream.
• 10 a.m. - Carnival style games and relays.

Entertainment

• 6 to 9 p.m. - Live entertainment by the Rabid Aardvarks at the Lion's Open Air Shelter.

Fireworks

• 9:20 p.m. - Seating available on sledding hill.

Interested in checking out a neighboring community's celebration? Read Patch's massive list of parties here.

The Rabid Aardvarks were named Wisconsin Area Music Industry’s 2012 Cover Band of the Year, and with 2012 marking the band’s sixth consecutive year at Summerfest, Sussex certainly made a significant upgrade. The band was hired after the village received large donations from area businesses like Boneyard Pub & Grille.

Described as a cover band of contemporary pop and modern country, the band features two female lead vocalists and a slew of male musicians. And with a name like Rabid Aardvarks, residents are practically guaranteed to have a good time.

Editor's Note: Who knew the Milwaukee area had so many fireworks shows. Check out Patch's interactive map of them all here.