Tag Archives: Parade

July 4th Fun

The July 4th weekend has to be one of my favorites! Anytime to take off work, focus on time with loved ones, relaxation and being thankful for our freedom is what life is all about! Although, I didn’t go anywhere or do anything super extravagant this weekend, I still had the opportunity to bask in what Arlington and Fort Worth have to offer! Sometimes we just need to relax in the place that we call home (or in my case, my Texas home).

Thursday: Arlington Texas hosts “Light Up Arlington” at Leavitt Pavillion. There are a ton of activities for children, local vendors and food tents. The real kick is the live music on the pavilion followed by the firework show up above. Grab a chair, bring a cooler and some snacks and be ready to start your relaxing Independence Day weekend. Kicker: Just down the road, the Rangers ballpark also has fireworks! Whether you are watching from your car in the traffic that follows or you’re lucky enough to find a spot to watch both – you’re in for a treat!

Independence Day, Texas, Arlington, Light Up Arlington, Fireworks

Friday: Whoohooo! Day off from work! The day started early (and hot) with attending the Arlington Independence Day Parade. Get ready – this is a long one! Bring sunscreen and a chair (and if you want to get a good spot, get there early). You will see everything at this parade. High schools, bands, politicians, local organizations, cultural groups, even Elvis’ on motorcycles!
Independence Day, Texas, Arlington, Arlington Idependence Day Parade, Parade,

Friday evening consisted of fireworks in Fort Worth. Talk about a great show but be prepared for a huge crowd. Plan ahead, pick a good spot. This year there were two spots – The Botanical Gardens and Panther Island Pavilion. From where I was, I was able to see both (and forgot my phone). They spaced them about 5-10 minutes apart but were absolutely awesome. Advice – come early and please do not park on the side of the highways (those people are crazy). Find a safe spot!

Saturday: When thinking Fort Worth, I’m pretty sure Oyster Bar isn’t on top of your list but I checked out this little hot spot to start off my evening. As soon as I got out of my car, I could smell seafood – brought back memories of vacations in Maine as a kid. Shrimp salad sandwich – so big that I could barely take a decent bite. The Seafood Gumbo is also a thumbs up!
Independence Day, Texas, J&J Oyster Bar, Fort Worth, Sandwich, Shrimp Salad

As mentioned, we are in Fort Worth, am I right?! Fort Worth is the greatest place to experience live music so it’s only natural that it’s incorporated into the weekend! I swung over to Shipping and Receiving in Southside Fort Worth. With a slight breeze in the air and the sun completely set, the temperature was just about perfect for an outdoor show and Hayes Carll always delivers! The fact that we weren’t packed in like sardines was even better. I’ve come to really enjoy this venue. If you haven’t had the chance, swing on by!
Independence Day, Texas, Fort Worth, Shipping and Receiving, Hayes Carll, Texas Country How was everyone’s weekend? I’d love to hear about your travels, stay-cations, food, live music experiences!

St. Patrick’s Day Pickle Parade

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This may be the most “different” parade that I’ve ever attended.

Mansfield Texas is home to Best Maid Pickles. From pickles to the Pickle Queens, this town parade has a little bit of everything (except the town band) that’s green and related to pickles. It’s a great way to incorporate leprechauns and pickles! Let’s take a glance!

The parade, had some consisted of some interesting folks…

In Mansfield, they like beer with their Bible study. Hey, it’s a good attraction!

Big pickles!

Also big wheels…
“Whambulance” – it cracks me up!

Let’s not forget the Pickle Queens!
Seriously, check out those boots!

The Mayor (or man running for Mayor) has the best gifts… helmets for the kids! Talk about swinging the vote!

And my ultimate favorite… how about this for a potato slicer?! Yes, it’s a drill…

I think it’s safe to say, I saw a little bit of everything at this one. Who would’ve known, the pickle capital was right in our backyard?!

Warren 4th of July Parade, Warren, VT

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I think when someone generally thinks of the type of people who live in Vermont, they think, environmentally aware, liberal, hippies, farmers and independent.

I wouldn’t disagree with you.

And I’m called a tree-hugger all the time (and damn proud).

Let me introduce you to the most independent, Independence Day Parade, possibly in the entire country.

BY FAR the best parade that I’ve EVER been to goes on in Warren, Vermont. This tiny town, tucked away in the Green Mountain hosts a parade that is not your typical 4th of July parade. Yes, they are still celebrating the birth of this nation but it comes with a more liberal, independent spin.

I first checked this out with a friend from college whose aunt invited us to go. I had the opportunity to attend the following two years and I wish I could attend every year. This is an event that you must attend at least once and you will definitely go back.

The first thing that you need to do when you arrive is grab a “Buddy Badge”. This helps to raise money to keep the parade alive. You will get a sticker with a number like this one…

Buy your randomly numbered badge at the entrance for $1.00. There are two sets of numbered badges made. Once you have your badge, look for the your match in the crowd and if you find them you win a pair of prizes!

The floats are filled with political activism. Some floats serious and proud of our country, others bringing humor to the politicians.

If you look closer on this “Ship of Fools” you will see….

…George being eaten by a shark!

Obviously, this parade was during his reign as President.

Here he is again with the crucifix.

We don’t like Flatlanders!

This is how you campaign for Governor.

I told ya, I love those tractors!

If you haven’t already noticed, these floats are not your “typical” floats.

They are HUGE, move and really grab your attention.

Environmental Awareness

Miss Global Warming

You even get some “interesting” groups…

Sometimes you will find things that catch your eye – these were all over town.

Look closely, this isn’t your typical Wizard of Oz!

After the parade, you can grab a bite to eat. American Flatbread was there every year that I attended and imagine that they still are. Brick oven, organic pizza, it doesn’t get much better!

Take a walk up the street or take a shortcut thru the woods and you will find yourself at the Warren school grounds. Here, you will find more grub, games for the kiddo’s and live music. The Mad Mountain Scramblers played a few times (another reason why I kept coming back). I’m pretty sure they perform here yearly. There’s nothing like listening to bluegrass in the Green Mountains. Just about perfect.

Mad Mountain Scramblers

If all that isn’t enough for you there is a street dance in the evening.

If you do plan on checking this out, be sure to allow yourself sufficient time to get there. I think this event grows annually. Parking, you will need to find one on the side of the road (you will be surrounded by Subaru’s and pick-ups). Bring a chair, bring a blanket, bring a big ole happy face and bring your friends – it’s a great time for everyone!

It brings a spot of mystery, something to be desired and you truly feel like you found a secret tucked away in the mountains. The drive is scenic, the atmosphere, well it can’t get much better. I wish I could attend every year.