BY DEBBIE PAGE
debbiepage.iredellfreenews@gmail.com

The 19th Annual Independence Day Parade in Troutman marched down Highway 21 on Saturday morning to celebrate America’s upcoming birthday, complete with a four-plane flyover to kick off the patriotic festivities and loads of red, white, and blue excitement from the thousands of people lining the parade route.

After the colors provided by the South Iredell MJROTC, Troutman Mayor Teross Young, town council members, Citizen of the Year Donna Lambert, and Organization of the Year Lowe’s employees led the parade.

The 90 entries featured marching units, church groups, civic organizations, Scout troops, military units, classic and antique cars, Jeep and Corvette groups, emergency vehicles, beauty queens, re-enactment groups, politicians, military vehicles, planes, and, most importantly, veterans of the U.S. Armed Services.

INDEPENDENCE FESTIVAL/FIREWORKS SHOW SET FOR WEDNESDAY NIGHT

The community is invited to gather with friends and family on Wednesday evening to enjoy Troutman’s free fireworks display at the Iredell County Fairgrounds. Gates will open at 6:30 p.m. for spectators to park and position blankets and chairs at the perfect viewing spot on the midway.

Spectators can enjoy live music by the Essick-Tuttle Outfit and DJ Sheldon as well as food trucks, bounce houses, and fun for all while waiting for the fireworks display, which will begin at approximately 9:30 p.m.

Food trucks on site will include Snack Shack Concessions, Hannah’s Amazing Bakery, Krazy Ice, Old Time Concessions, Southern Treats, Mullins Madness, Skinners Hot & Tasty, The Truk, Village Inn Pizza, and Vivian’s Rocking Concessions.

Attendees for the Saturday evening event are reminded that no coolers, smoking, alcohol, or pets are allowed in the fairgrounds.

Participants may bring lawn chairs or blankets to the midway area to view the show, but all bags are subject to being checked by police officers.

Parking is available inside the fairgrounds. The town asks that no one park on private property.

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