A Community Celebration
T
he Independence Day Celebration has been a Blacksburg tradition for as long as anyone can remember. Though the venues and musicians have changed and the fireworks have gotten bigger and better, the celebration remains true to its small-townAmerica spirit. With a clash of symbols and a whirl of flags, the Independence Day Parade will depart from the old Blacksburg Middle School property and will run through downtown. Along its route, civic groups will be passing out candy to eager children, and adults. If you need a break from the heat and tired feet, The Lyric Theatre will offer free tickets to a classic American film. When it’s time for dinner, head over to Municipal Park and grab a bite from one of the many food vendors and enjoy the patriotic rhythms of the Blacksburg Community Band. Let the kiddos enjoy their independence at one of the park’s three playgrounds. Since its Bicentennial Celebration in 1998, Blacksburg has put on the largest pyrotechnics display in the New River Valley. As the daylight fades, nestle down on your picnic blanket and watch the fireworks show amidst the smell of blackend hot-dogs and black powder. Around the country, people celebrate our nation’s independence with sparklers, cookouts and the red, white and blue. But, most people can agree that the most important tradition is gathering with friends and family. Pat Marlowe, a Blacksburg resident, has been attending the events for over 15 years. “The event has such a community feel. We would meet up with a group to watch the parade and bring our children. Now some bring their grandchildren. It has become such a family time. It’s part of the fabric of our family,” says Marlowe. Come make Blacksburg’s Independence Day Celebration part of your annual traditions. This year’s events start on July 4 at 2 p.m. with a parade followed by a free movie at The Lyric Theatre, both sponsored by the Mt. Tabor Ruritan Club. At 6 p.m., come over to Municipal Park to enjoy music from the Blacksburg Community Band and stay for the Town of Blacksburg’s fireworks display at 9 p.m.
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