Grand Junction Fourth of July parade draws crowds for America’s 250th anniversary

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KJCT) - Hundreds of people lined downtown Main Street Saturday morning for Grand Junction’s annual Fourth of July parade, with many attendees saying this year’s celebration carried added significance as the nation marks its 250th anniversary.

Floats, a marching band, and candy drew families to the route, but those in the crowd said the milestone year made the event feel like more than a traditional holiday gathering.

‘Super excited to celebrate’

“We are just super excited to celebrate with our community and all of the Valley the 250th anniversary of our nation,” said Kelly Smith, a parade attendee. “And we’re just out here to support everybody and our firefighters and all the great sacrifices that our nation has made for our freedom.”

Another attendee reflected on family history. “I am very blessed to have my grandparents emigrate to this country and thankful that we are now celebrating our 250th,” she said.

Steve Riseman, an attendee, said the turnout stood out to him. “It’s good to see all of the kids and patriotism, young and old, here to celebrate. Happy birthday, America!” he said.

Honoring those who served

For some, a float featuring mothers of currently serving military members was a highlight of the parade.

“The one float that really kind of tugged at my heartstrings was the mothers of the service soldiers that are serving our country right now,” Smith said. “And as a mother myself, I just think that is the greatest sacrifice that any mother, any parent could give this nation. I just, I pray for our soldiers every day. I’m just so thankful for their sacrifice.”

Another attendee Robert Herrera echoed that sentiment. “I appreciate everybody who’s been in the military, and also all our fallen soldiers. We thank them, and we thank everybody. Also our future military. It means a lot for us to have the freedom that we have today,” he said.

“Freedom doesn’t come free and it involves sacrifice. And there have been people that have fallen so that we can enjoy events like this and celebrate as a community,” said Smith.

Younger attendees join the celebration

The parade also drew younger participants and spectators. “I would say the funnest part was throwing out candy,” one child at the parade said.

Another young attendee said the day was about connection. “We like to meet new people, hang out with old friends, and just have a good time on 4th of July and celebrate the 250th year of America,” they said.