ALDERSON, W.Va. — One of the longest 4th of July parades in West Virginia kicks off Thursday morning in the community of Alderson.
Briton Kirby, member of the Alderson 4th of July Celebration Committee, told MetroNews their 63rd annual grand parade steps off at 10:30 a.m. and runs for about two hours. He said interest has peaked this year.
“I think it’s just people are reaching out and finding different places to take their family without having to travel and spend a whole lot of money,” Kirby said.
Kirby said the parade is a tradition that brings families together each year.
“This is a very hometown feel of a celebration. A lot of the people that come here do it year after year. It becomes a tradition for them and for us to see the same people and to see new people who start new traditions every year,” he said.
The parade will include all kinds of antique cars, floats from local churches and organizations, fire trucks from across the area, sports teams and marching bands.
Kirby said after the parade they’ll hand out trophies and prizes. The Goodson Boy will perform on the Alderson Memorial Football Field at 7 p.m. Thursday before Miss Fireworks is introduced. Fireworks are scheduled to begin at 10:15 p.m.
On Friday, Kirby said they’ll host their Firemen’s Rodeo. He said it’s a chance for firefighters to engage with the community in a positive way.
“Our local firefighters will compete in events like tug-of-war, an obstacle course and a water battle. It gives our local volunteers a chance to compete against each other and have some fun instead of the normal, stressful situation,” Kirby said.
Friday’s schedule also includes a 5K race, a kid’s fishing tournament, a baking contest, ice cream social, open mic night and more.
Kirby said the goal to make each event affordable for families.
“The only thing that we have that costs anything is our Goodson Boys concert followed by the ground fireworks. To get into the gate, it’s only $5. We work really hard to not make it a painful experience for someone to bring their families out to see this,” he said.
Alderson’s 4th of July Celebration runs through Sunday.
For a full lineup of events, visit www.alderson4th.com.