Ashland's Patriotic Celebration: A Vibrant Tapestry of Community Spirit

Ashland's Independence Day festivities are set to be a captivating blend of family-friendly activities, honoring the nation's founding while fostering a sense of unity and joy within the community. From a parade featuring young grand marshals to a musical extravaganza, this year's celebration promises to be a truly memorable event.

Uniting Generations, Embracing the Spirit of Independence

Parade Highlights: Celebrating the Next Generation

Ashland's annual 4th of July parade will be a testament to the city's commitment to its youth, with the grand marshals being two local students who recently won the "If I Were Mayor" contest. This year's parade theme, "Go 4th for Kids! We're All Kids at Heart," underscores the event's focus on engaging and empowering the younger generation. The parade will feature a jet flyover, adding an exciting aerial element to the festivities, as well as the participation of Ashland Boy Scouts Troop 112, who will carry the national, state, and Legion flags to kick off the procession.

Runs for All Ages: Fostering Fitness and Community

The 4th of July runs, organized by Ashland Parks & Recreation, offer something for everyone. The 2-mile fun run and the competitive 10K race provide an opportunity for participants of all ages to celebrate the holiday through physical activity. Proceeds from the runs will benefit the Ashland and Phoenix high school cross country teams, while donations will also be accepted for the Ashland Parks Foundation, ensuring that the community's recreational spaces continue to thrive.

Lithia Park Festivities: A Tapestry of Music, Patriotism, and Camaraderie

Following the parade, the focus shifts to Lithia Park, where a vibrant array of family-friendly activities and vendor booths will captivate attendees until 5 p.m. The Ashland City Band and other musical groups will take the stage at the Butler Bandshell, delighting the crowd with a repertoire of marches, patriotic pieces, and a medley of American Civil War songs that will feature a recitation of the Gettysburg Address. The highlight of the day will be the American Band College band concert, which will feature the high-energy virtuosic group, Project Trio, from Brooklyn, showcasing their unique interpretations of classical and popular music.

Fireworks Restrictions: Prioritizing Safety and Sustainability

While the festivities will not include a traditional fireworks display, the city of Ashland has taken a proactive approach to fire safety by prohibiting fireworks and sky lanterns throughout the year. This decision, made in response to the city's recent move to a "moderate" fire danger level, underscores Ashland's commitment to protecting its residents and preserving the natural beauty of the region.

A Celebration of Community, Patriotism, and Artistic Excellence

Ashland's Independence Day celebration is a testament to the city's vibrant community spirit, its dedication to honoring the nation's founding, and its appreciation for the arts. From the parade's focus on the next generation to the diverse musical performances and the absence of fireworks in favor of safety, this year's festivities promise to be a truly unique and memorable experience for all who attend.