With July 4 just around the corner, Independence Township Parks and Recreation is preparing for another day of holiday fun.
‘I think it’s important to take time out and spend time with your family and this is the perfect atmosphere to do so. Whether your family lives here or out of town, this is a nice way to show off your community,? said Kelly Hyer, recreation supervisor for Independence Township Parks and Recreation.
‘It’s a nice way to give some pause and thoughts too about our troops overseas or even here in the states, time for a little bit of reflection and what July fourth means.?
The day will kick off with the annual downtown parade, starting at 10 a.m. at St. Daniel’s Church, 7010 Valley Park, down Holcomb and Miller roads to Main Street, to Church Street, ending at Clarkston Community Education building, 6300 Church Street at Waldon Road.
This year’s theme is ‘American Heroes.? The parade is organized by Independence Fire Department. Festivities at Clintonwood Park will kickoff at 11 a.m. until dusk.
Activities include Arts and Crafts show, live entertainment featuring local DJ James Tedder, 2XL, Pat Saunders, and Radio Disney.
‘People can register to win Jonas Brothers tickets between 4:30- 6:15 p.m.,” said Hyer.
Other activities include the Spray Park, K-9 toss and fetch competition, children’s activities and inflatables, dog adoptions, food vendors, softball tournament, Men’s slow pitch class ‘C? at 8 a.m., display vendors, and a fireworks show at dusk, about 10 p.m.
‘Stars and Stripes Gymnastics will do some interactive tumbling with the kids, and the national anthem will be played by James Seaton on electric guitar in either the afternoon or evening,? noted Hyer.
Also, Clarkston Community Church, 6300 Clarkston Road, will host events between 7-10 p.m. They will offer free hot dogs, ice cream, and games for children, and their church band will play patriotic songs.
‘We expect of 2,000 people on church property, in the church yard to watch fireworks (at Clintonwood Park) at 10,? said Pastor Greg Henneman.
For the past several years, many people have parked their cars and walked to Clintonwood Park or watched the fireworks from the church parking lot. This year, Henneman along with his congregation wanted to give back, he said.
‘It’s just a way that we can serve the community,? he said.