Ypsilanti’s annual 4th of July Parade makes its return to the city on July 4. Presented by The American Legion - Post 82, the event is located at Riverside Park and runs from 11-3 p.m.
The parade will feature over 60 participants this year including marching bands, veterans, live music performances, Ypsilanti high schools and businesses. Some of the artists include singer Azara and the ThunderBuck Ram Rock Band. There will also be appearances by the Fire House Museum and The Harmony Co. Awards will be given to the parade’s best music performances and presentations.
“It's just a great way to kick off the Fourth of July holiday,” Erica Hampton, community organizer of the parade, said.
This will be the parade’s 94th year anniversary.
“You're going to see some organizations and businesses that you might not have even known were a part of the community,” Hampton said. “This gives one the opportunity to, you know, reach out to them in the future if need be. It's the perfect time to really connect with your neighbors and the people around you.”
Community members and organizers of the parade make an effort to represent its community in the best ways possible.
“We like to keep it diverse,” Hampton said. “We prompt different organizations and groups that represent the community to be as involved as possible.”
Ypsilanti’s 4th of July Parade is the longest running 4th of July parade in the state of Michigan on record since 1929. Many prominent historical figures in Michigan have been involved in the parade over time.
“Over the years we’ve even had not only veterans and organizations participate in the parade, but Michigan governors as well,” Daniel Myers Jr., American Legion Post Commander of Ypsilanti, said. “I remember Mulliken being in it and Romney, and this was back when I remember going as a kid.”
After the parade, there will be more Bicentennial celebrations for guests to enjoy. To kick off the post parade festivities, Ypsilanti will be hosting its grand time capsule opening.
Read more: (Link to Time Capsule Article)
Afterwards, guests can wind down the remainder of the event as they enjoy the Bicentennial picnic. Food and drinks will be provided.
The Ypsilanti 4th of July parade and picnic are free to the public. For more information, visit the Ypsilanti’s 4th of July Facebook page.
