Fourth of July Festivities from Coast to Coastby Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger 30 Jun 2008 06:05 PM If you are planning to spend the long Fourth of July holiday weekend in California, Colorado, Texas or Massachusetts you're in for a real treat. The aforementioned states are home to some of the most unique Independence Day parades in the country. Load up the family wagon (or minivan), find room for a few lawn chairs, and don't forget to pack a few miniature flags to wave at parade participants and the many men and women who risk their lives fighting for the freedoms we treasure. CALIFORNIA---Old Glory Boat Parade Newport Harbor on Balboa Island is home to a spectacularly festive Fourth of July boat parade. The event first started in the 1950s with just a handful of vessels, but over the years Balboa's parade on water has become a must-attend event and now includes some 100 entries, from tall clipper ships to yachts, sailboats and dinghies. Each craft is decorated in a patriotic theme and organizers say the crowds go wild as participants try to outdo each other using music, costumes, and outlandish decorations to show off their pride for our beloved country. COLORADO---Greeley Independence Day Parade Greeley's annual Independence Day parade is part of what is hailed as "The World's Largest Fourth of July Rodeo and Western Celebration." And talk about unique--the parade starts with 110 head of longhorn steers and a U.S. Air Force flyover. The procession also features dozens of marching bands, floats and rodeo clowns. TEXAS---"We the People" 4th of July Parade Everything is bigger in Texas and Fourth of July parades are no exception. In the quaint town of Belton (located about 40 miles north of Austin) the annual Independence Day parade has been around since the mid-1800s and became an annual event in 1919. In the years since it has attracted a loyal following. So loyal, in fact, that organizers say the marching procession draws thousands of participants and spectators from across the state. The famous holiday parade features floats, bands, decorated bicycles, classic cars and rodeo riders. MASSACHUSETTS---Pittsfield 4th of July Parade Pittsfield's Fourth of July Parade dates back to 1824, when it was known as "Your Hometown America Parade." Back then the procession consisted of Revolutionary War veterans and politicians riding in horse-drawn carriages. These days the parade boasts modern floats, giant balloons, marching bands and acrobats. Related Articles: Where to Wave Your Flag this Fourth of July Fourth of July Travel--Everyone Loves a Parade Affordable Fourth of July Travel Deals More Affordable Fourth of July Family Getaways Affordable Fourth of July Family Getaways Saving Money While Celebrating the Fourth with Family on the Road Family-Friendly Summer Travel Bargains More Incredible Summer Airfare Bargains Sizzling Summer Airfare Bargains Saving on Summer Travel--More Southern Bargains Summer Travel: Saving Money Down South Where to Get an Affordable Summer Tan Summer Travel 2008-Gas Tank Getaways Part 2 Summer Travel 2008--Gas Tank Getaways Summer Travel: Unique Ways to Save Money on Gas Saving on Summer Travel-It is Possible Part 2 Saving on Summer Travel--It is Possible Cash Strapped? Check Out These California Travel Packages Kid-Friendly Hotels Getting Friendlier Fueling Your Summer Vacation with Gas Savers Learn more about Michele Cheplic  Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism. Relevanttravel tags User Comments No comments on this article yet. Be the first to comment! Community Tags Colorado, california, family vacation, travel deals, Texas Discuss this article
|
Travel categories |
