Who doesn’t love a parade?

BY: RACHEL WUMKES

A parade is a procession of people or vehicles moving through a public place in order to celebrate an important day or event.  For Clear Lake’s 4th of July Extravaganza, it’s the culmination of a week-long celebration, kicking off a full day of fun in our beautiful tourist town.

Everyone has their favorite part about Clear Lake’s 4th of July.  Some choose the incredible rides at the Evan’s United Shows carnival.  Others might favor the free live music in City Park each evening.  My kids would definitely choose the fireworks over the lake.

But me?  Well, I sort of live for the parade!

It got me thinking this morning.  I mean, what a silly notion, a parade.  You gather a bunch of people to showboat down a street and throw candy at people as they watch.

I mean, who came up with such a thing?

Well, turns out they have been around since the early 1800s.  Experts speculate the earliest events consisted of prehistoric men triumphantly carrying the game they killed during a hunt back to their camp.  Religious processions were one form; the other type was military.  Troops paraded in front of people to show off the men before leaving for battle, to practice maneuvers, or to show off their prisoners after a successful campaign.

Nowadays, people seem to find almost any reason to host a parade.  For holidays, high school homecoming, or a town’s “days” which seems to be a popular trend in Iowa!  Parades bring communities together, whether that be in protest or celebration.

Many things have been added over the years to make parades what they are today.  But the premise remains the same… to have some good, old-fashioned fun!

Fun facts:

  • The Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena, California on New Years Day is the largest parade in the country.
  • You must have at least 15 people moving in the same direction for something to be called “a parade.”
  • A person watching a parade is called a “parade-goer.”
  • The big balloons you see in the Macy’s parade are called “falloons.”
  • Clear Lake’s 4th of July parade is the best Independence Day parade around.

Okay, that last one might be more of my opinion than a fun fact.

Still… am I wrong?

Many towns across the state, and even the country, plan a 4th of July parade as part of their community celebration.

But in North Iowa, nothing compares to the Clear Lake Independence Day parade.

Are you signed up yet?  If not… you should be!

Clear Lake’s July 4th Parade is a cherished tradition, and this year holds even more significance as we celebrate “Decades of Fun” while honoring Evans United Show’s 50th year in our beloved town. It’s an occasion that calls for enthusiastic participation from businesses, who are an integral part of our community’s fabric.

By joining the parade, you’ll have the chance to engage with thousands of residents and visitors lining the streets, all eagerly anticipating the festivities. It’s an excellent opportunity to raise awareness of your brand, connect with potential customers, and demonstrate your commitment to the Clear Lake community.

Whether you choose to create a vibrant float, march in step with your group, showcase classic cars, or express your creativity in any other way, your presence will add to the vibrancy and joy of this event.

To secure your spot, visit our July 4th Event Page and download the simple form. Should you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to our dedicated coordinator at  jennifer@clearlakeiowa.com.

Don’t wait, get signed up by June 16, 2023.  We look forward to seeing your business or group shine brightly in Clear Lake’s July 4th Parade!