You bet. Right here in Little Rhody, Bristol can lay claim to holding the oldest continually running Fourth of July celebration. And Bristol takes this honor very seriously. Veteran’s groups from all military branches, as well as numerous fire and police departments will be represented. The parade will also feature dozens of floats and 27 marching bands.
Special guests for this year include two official Marvel Comics characters, Spider-Man and Wolverine as well as Red Sox mascot Wally the Green Monster.
Every detail is in order. Town Crier Gerry MacNeill is set to kick start the parade as he has for more than 20 years. The red, white and blue stripes that run down the center of Hope Street will be repainted as they are each year.
The town’s celebration started as a patriotic exercise in 1785 and that tradition has continued every year since.
The parade attracts an estimated 100,000 people and costs close to $100,000 to stage.
I can say from experience to bring something comfortable to sit on and plan to spend a day entertained like no other.
It also wouldn’t hurt to make friends with someone who lives on Main. Lawn seats and preferred parking are a premium!
